path: root/radio.tex

% !TeX program = lualatex
% !TeX encoding = utf8
% !TeX spellcheck = english
\documentclass{article}

\usepackage{fontspec}
\usepackage[mathjax]{lwarp}
\usepackage[sfdefault]{roboto}
\usepackage{microtype}
\usepackage{lmodern}
\usepackage[english]{babel}
\usepackage{hyperref}
\usepackage{booktabs}   % nicer tables
\usepackage{array}      % better column control in tables
\usepackage{geometry}
\geometry{margin=2.5cm}

% For better section formatting in HTML output
\usepackage{sectsty}
\sectionfont{\large\bfseries}
\subsectionfont{\normalsize\bfseries}

\title{RLFHL Tactical Wi-Fi HaLow Mesh Network}
\author{Petri Hienonen}
\date{\today}

\begin{document}

\maketitle

\tableofcontents

\section{Capability Gap Addressed}

Current tactical networks are vulnerable to centralized node loss, EW targeting, and vendor lock-in, as observed in recent contested environments.

\textbf{RLFHL} provides a low-signature, attrition-tolerant, IP-based mesh backbone to restore platoon-to-company level connectivity when traditional systems fail.

\textbf{TRL 6-7}

MIL-STD-810G Tested \quad CSfC Compliant Path \quad VICTORY-Aligned Data Bus

IEEE 802.11ah Distributed Mesh \quad Post-Quantum Ready \quad Open IP Backbone

\section{Product Description}

RLFHL is a portable Wi-Fi HaLow (IEEE 802.11ah) mesh network providing secure IP transport for messages, telemetry, images, and opportunistic video. The system is designed to operate where traditional tactical radios and centralized command networks fail.

RLFHL prioritizes \textbf{survivability, simplicity, and manufacturability} over peak throughput. It deliberately avoids proprietary waveforms and closed ecosystems in favor of open standards and crypto agility.

\subsection{RLFHL Tactical Wi-Fi HaLow MESH Network}
Combining portable gateway mobility with robust access point capabilities

\subsubsection{Portable Gateway Features (RLFHL-UM)}
\begin{itemize}
	\item \textbf{Plug-and-Play, Zero Configuration:} No setup required, offering immediate access to wireless internet.
	\item \textbf{Energy Efficiency:} Wi-Fi HaLow ensures low power consumption, excellent signal penetration, and energy efficiency, all while reducing costs and environmental impact.
	\item \textbf{USB Power Bank Support:} A wearable, convenient solution. A standard power bank can keep the RLFHL operational for up to 8 hours.
	\item \textbf{Seamless On-the-Go Connectivity:} Lightweight, convenient wearable devices, combined with WiFi HaLow's long-range connectivity, provide wireless networking anytime, anywhere.
\end{itemize}

\subsubsection{Access Point Features (RLFHL-AP)}
\begin{itemize}
	\item \textbf{Versatile Connectivity:} Offers diverse connectivity options, eliminating the need for unnecessary hubs. Customize and expand your wireless network with unparalleled flexibility.
	\item \textbf{High Device Capacity:} Supports over 8,000 stable connections, four times the capacity of traditional Wi-Fi access points, thanks to innovative star network topology.
	\item \textbf{Long-Range Communication:} Pushes Wi-Fi boundaries, extending connectivity farther than ever before, exceeding 1 km per hop.
	\item \textbf{Robust Data Transmission:} Achieves reliable 150 Kbps data rates for distances over 1 kilometer, coupled with high-speed video streaming capabilities for shorter ranges.
	\item \textbf{Exceptional Signal Penetration:} Excels in cutting through barriers, providing tenfold improved signal penetration compared to standard Wi-Fi frequencies, ensuring strong and consistent connectivity.
\end{itemize}

\textbf{Unified Solution:}

RLFHL integrates both portable gateway and access point capabilities into a single, cohesive system designed for tactical edge communications.

\subsubsection{Graceful Degradation}
Maintains command connectivity even when bandwidth drops to 150 kbps under EW pressure.

\subsubsection{Attrition Tolerant}
Network survives loss of 30--40\% of nodes through self-healing mesh topology.

\subsubsection{Low Observability}
Sub-1 GHz, adaptive duty cycle reduces RF signature by 60--80\% vs typical tactical radios.

\section{Technical Summary}

\begin{tabular}{>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{5cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{9cm}}
	\toprule
	\textbf{Parameter} & \textbf{Specification}                                      \\
	\midrule
	Frequency          & Sub-1 GHz regional bands (863--868 MHz EU, 902--928 MHz US) \\
	Range              & $>1$ km per hop (terrain dependent)                         \\
	Throughput         & 150 kbps -- 86.7 Mbps (adaptive)                            \\
	Topology           & Self-forming mesh, optional backbone                        \\
	Security           & WPA3+ hybrid PQ key exchange                                \\
	Power              & 7--10 days active, 2+ year standby                          \\
	Interoperability   & Standard IP (IPv4/IPv6), Ethernet, USB-C                    \\
	Environmental      & MIL-STD-810G (shock, vibe, temp, humidity)                  \\
	\bottomrule
\end{tabular}

\section{Doctrine-Aligned Use Cases}

\subsection{Forward / Remote Sites}
Establishes local wireless backbone connecting sensors, cameras, and command terminals
\begin{itemize}
	\item Operates where no backhaul exists or infrastructure is degraded
	\item Supports ISR data exfiltration from denied areas
	\item Optional integration with satellite solutions like Starlink for hybrid backhaul to wider IP networks
\end{itemize}

\subsection{Mobile Teams and Assets}
\begin{itemize}
	\item Wearable or vehicle-mounted RLFHL-UM nodes extend mesh dynamically
	\item Maintains message and image flow as teams move through terrain
	\item Blue-force tracking via low-rate telemetry (NMEA format)
\end{itemize}

\subsection{Temporary Operations}
\begin{itemize}
	\item Rapid deployment for exercises or disaster response
	\item No permanent spectrum or infrastructure commitments required
	\item Company-level setup in under 20 minutes
\end{itemize}

\section{Problem Analysis \& Solution Matrix}

\begin{tabular}{>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{3.5cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{3.2cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{4cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{3.5cm}}
	\toprule
	\textbf{Observed Problem}   & \textbf{Typical Military Systems}                                 & \textbf{RLFHL Solution Direction}                                               & \textbf{Operational Impact}                            \\
	\midrule
	Centralized nodes destroyed & Star topology collapses catastrophically                          & Fully distributed mesh, no single point of failure                              & Partial functionality survives node loss               \\
	EW detection and targeting  & Constant beacons, high RF signature                               & Adaptive duty cycle, low-power sub-GHz operation                                & Reduced detectability by 60--80\%                      \\
	High logistics burden       & Short battery life, proprietary spares                            & Low power design, COTS components, multi-day operation                          & Resupply interval extended from hours to days          \\
	Vendor lock-in              & Closed waveforms, restricted devices                              & Open IEEE + IP backbone, multi-vendor compatible                                & No single-source dependency, competitive pricing       \\
	Training overhead           & Weeks of signal training required                                 & Hours-level operator training (IP networking basics)                            & Faster deployment, lower skill threshold               \\
	Crypto obsolescence risk    & Fixed algorithms, hardware-dependent                              & Crypto-agile, post-quantum ready via software update                            & Future-proof against quantum decryption threats        \\
	Complexity in stress        & High cognitive load, multiple systems                             & Single system for data, self-forming network                                    & Reduced operator error under fire                      \\
	Satellite dependency        & Over-reliance on systems like Starlink exposes vulnerabilities... & Ground-based, low-signature mesh provides independent, attritable redundancy... & Maintains tactical connectivity in denial scenarios... \\
	\bottomrule
\end{tabular}

\section{Direct Competitive Comparison}

\begin{tabular}{>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{4.5cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{4cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{4cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{3.5cm}}
	\toprule
	\textbf{Parameter} & \textbf{Typical Tactical SDR (e.g., Bittium Tough)} & \textbf{RLFHL Approach}                            & \textbf{RLFHL Advantage for Attrition Warfare}                                    \\
	\midrule
	Unit Cost          & High (thousands EUR)                                & Low (hundreds EUR)                                 & \textbf{Economically attritable}. Enables mass deployment and reserve stockpiles. \\
	Waveform           & Proprietary, vendor-locked                          & Open IEEE 802.11ah standard                        & \textbf{No vendor lock-in}. Enables multi-vendor sourcing and custom development. \\
	Network Model      & Often point-to-point or star                        & Self-healing distributed mesh                      & \textbf{No single point of failure}. Survives multiple node losses.               \\
	RF Signature       & High (powerful, often UHF+)                         & Low (sub-1GHz, adaptive duty cycle)                & \textbf{Lower EW/ELINT detectability}. Harder to target with direction finding.   \\
	Primary Use        & Voice, Data (replacing legacy radios)               & \textbf{Data Backbone} (messaging, telemetry, ISR) & \textbf{Complements} voice radios with resilient IP data layer.                   \\
	Logistics          & Specialized batteries, complex training             & COTS batteries, simple IP training                 & \textbf{Simpler sustainment}, easier operator training, commercial supply chain.  \\
	Failure Mode       & Catastrophic (gateway loss = network loss)          & Graceful degradation                               & \textbf{Partial functionality maintained} even under heavy attrition.             \\
	\bottomrule
\end{tabular}

\section{Total Ownership Cost \& Support}

\subsection{Cost Breakdown}

\begin{tabular}{>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{6cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{4cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{6cm}}
	\toprule
	\textbf{Cost Component}          & \textbf{Estimate (EUR)} & \textbf{Notes}                              \\
	\midrule
	Unit Procurement Cost (RLFHL-AP) & < 200                   & Volume of 1,000+ units                      \\
	5-Year Sustainment (per unit)    & 80--120                 & Includes spares, updates, support           \\
	Initial Training Package         & 5,000                   & Train-the-trainer for up to 50 units        \\
	Annual Support Contract          & 15\% of hardware        & Optional extended firmware/security updates \\
	\bottomrule
\end{tabular}

\subsection{Training Requirements}

\begin{itemize}
	\item \textbf{Operator Course:} 4 hours (basic deployment, diagnostics)
	\item \textbf{Maintainer Course:} 2 days (node replacement, configuration)
	\item \textbf{Training Materials:} Provided in local language (PDF, video)
\end{itemize}

\subsection{Warranty \& Support}

\begin{itemize}
	\item \textbf{Standard Warranty:} 2 years (parts and labor)
	\item \textbf{Extended Support:} Available up to 10 years post-procurement
	\item \textbf{Update Policy:} Security updates for 5+ years, critical bug fixes for 10+
	\item \textbf{Depot Repair:} Turnaround < 14 days, 70\% cost savings vs new unit
\end{itemize}

\section{Integration \& Interoperability}

\subsection{Physical Interfaces}

\begin{itemize}
	\item Ethernet (PoE capable) for command post integration
	\item USB-C for power/data (field tablets, battery packs)
	\item Optional SMA connectors for external directional antennas
	\item Standard NATO battery connectors (compatible with BA-5590 etc.)
\end{itemize}

\subsection{Gateway Functions}

\begin{itemize}
	\item RLFHL-AP provides Ethernet bridge to tactical LAN
	\item Concurrent 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi for local device connectivity
	\item Protocol translation for legacy systems (serial-to-IP)
	\item Store-and-forward for delay-tolerant networking
	\item Integration with satellite terminals (e.g., Starlink) as additional routes to wider IP networks for hybrid connectivity
\end{itemize}

\subsection{Standards Compliance}

\begin{itemize}
	\item \textbf{Data Formats:} NMEA for tracking, MJPEG/H.264 for video, REST API for C2
	\item \textbf{Routing:} Standard IP routing (OSPF, BGP) for backbone integration
	\item \textbf{Security:} FIPS 140-2 validated crypto modules, CSfC compliant architecture
	\item \textbf{VICTORY Alignment:} Data bus compatible, standard service definitions
\end{itemize}

\section{Test \& Evaluation Summary}

\subsection{Field Test Results}

\begin{tabular}{>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{4cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{2.5cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{2.8cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{2cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{3.5cm}}
	\toprule
	\textbf{Test Scenario} & \textbf{Range Achieved} & \textbf{Avg. Throughput} & \textbf{Packet Loss} & \textbf{Notes}                                   \\
	\midrule
	Wooded Terrain         & 1.2 km                  & 4.8 Mbps                 & < 1\%                & 2 nodes, line-of-sight obstructed                \\
	Urban, Non-LOS         & 400 m                   & 1.1 Mbps                 & 5\%                  & 3-hop mesh around buildings                      \\
	EW Environment         & N/A                     & Adaptive (150 kbps min)  & 15\% peak            & Maintained command channel under broadband noise \\
	Extended Endurance     & Consistent              & Stable                   & < 2\%                & 7-day continuous operation, battery              \\
	\bottomrule
\end{tabular}

\subsection{Certification Status}

\begin{itemize}
	\item \textbf{Environmental:} MIL-STD-810G testing completed (shock, vibration, temperature)
	\item \textbf{EMC:} MIL-STD-461 compliance in progress
	\item \textbf{Security:} Targeting NIAP/Common Criteria evaluation, CSfC component listed
	\item \textbf{Safety:} CE, FCC marked for commercial bands
\end{itemize}

\subsection{Operational Testing}

\begin{itemize}
	\item Field trials with partner military units (Fall 2023)
	\item Contested RF environment testing at national EW range
	\item Interoperability testing with [Redacted] C2 system
\end{itemize}

\section{Risk Mitigation}

\subsection{Identified Risks \& Mitigations}

\begin{tabular}{>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{5cm}>{\centering\arraybackslash}p{2cm}>{\centering\arraybackslash}p{2cm}>{\raggedright\arraybackslash}p{6cm}}
	\toprule
	\textbf{Risk}                  & \textbf{Probability} & \textbf{Impact} & \textbf{Mitigation Strategy}                                                                                                                                                                            \\
	\midrule
	Spectrum congestion/jamming    & Medium               & High            & Adaptive frequency hopping, fallback to most robust modulation, low duty cycle operation                                                                                                                \\
	Supply chain disruption        & Medium               & Medium          & Dual-source critical components, firmware adaptable to alternate HaLow SoCs                                                                                                                             \\
	Mesh protocol instability      & Low                  & High            & Battle-tested OLSR/B.A.T.M.A.N. adaptation, field-tested with 50+ node density                                                                                                                          \\
	Crypto vulnerability discovery & Low                  & Critical        & Crypto-agile architecture, ability to update algorithms without hardware replacement                                                                                                                    \\
	Integration complexity         & Medium               & Medium          & Standard IP interfaces, published API documentation, reference integration kits                                                                                                                         \\
	Satellite integration risks    & Medium               & Medium          & Support for hybrid routing with satellites like Starlink as opportunistic backhaul; core mesh operates independently to avoid over-reliance and associated vulnerabilities (e.g., jamming or targeting) \\
	\bottomrule
\end{tabular}

\subsection{Contingency Plans}

\begin{itemize}
	\item \textbf{Alternative Frequencies:} Design supports migration to other sub-GHz bands if primary bands become unusable
	\item \textbf{Fallback Mode:} Ultra-low rate (150 kbps) ``beacon'' mode maintains basic connectivity under extreme EW
	\item \textbf{Legacy Integration:} Gateway can interface with traditional tactical radios as emergency backhaul
	\item \textbf{Satellite Fallback:} While integrating satellites enhances reach, RLFHL ensures ground-based resilience to mitigate risks of pure satellite dependency
\end{itemize}

\section{Network Topology Overview}

% (The page appears to have only a placeholder/empty heading here – no detailed diagram or text follows before the closing call-to-action.
% If a diagram exists as an image on the site, you could later insert it via \includegraphics after conversion or manually.
% For now we keep it minimal.)

\subsection*{Next Steps for Procurement Evaluation}

For detailed specifications, classified briefings, or to schedule a field demonstration with your operational units:

\textbf{Contact:} [Point of Contact - Program Manager]

\textbf{Available:} Technical data packages, test reports, reference architectures, and operational concept briefings.

\end{document}