Hiding in Plain Sight
Enhancing Tactical Communications on the Battlefield
In the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, one of the most critical challenges faced by military forces lies in tactical communications. The ‘Hiding in Plain Sight’ student team, studying BSc Physics at the University of Leicester, took part in the Hacking for Ministry of Defence (H4MOD) course in Autumn 2023 and delved into the complexities of this issue.
A Mission Critical Problem
The challenge is simple: how can military forces effectively communicate in a high-tech environment without compromising their safety and security? Effective communication at the tactical level is vital, especially in an era where technology enables adversaries to identify locations and intercept communications with ease. The consequences of failure in this area are significant and can ultimately lead to defeat on the battlefield and loss of life.
Currently, when there is a threat of enemy detection, communication using certain high-tech methods must not be used and personnel must revert back to using the rudimentary map and compass, a method which prevents the Company Group from communicating with other units, either by calling in support, or seeking to disperse. These situations can leave units feeling isolated and vulnerable.
Hiding in Plain Sight student team along with Problem Sponsors, Industry Mentor and Educators.
Forward Thinking: The Proposed Solutions
After conducting over 90 interviews with people inside and outside of Defence who have an awareness of the problem, the student team proposed an innovative three-part solution:
Drone-Based Deception: The team proposed using drones to mimic signatures, allowing for undetectable communication by deceiving adversaries about the actual location and activities of military units.
Directional Antennas: The team suggested using directional antennas which would operate on the 5G network to control and enhance signal transmission, providing a more secure and targeted communication method.
Component Use of Systems: The team recommended the strategic use of hardware components to deliver communication capabilities, emphasising simplicity and efficiency in the design and operation of these systems.
Impactful Investigations
The proposed solutions could significantly improve tactical communications. The solutions would increase confidence in operating undetected, enhance communication capability, and give strategic advantage over adversaries. Problem Sponsor Lt Col Gordon Muir and his team are keen to support the students' efforts beyond the H4MOD course and will look to procure some equipment to be trialed on exercise in August this year. Gordon’s team is still in touch with the students to keep them up-to-date on how their solution idea is progressing.
Not only was the Problem Sponsor impressed with the solution ideas and his team have already made plans to implement them, but Gordon also found a lot of value in working with a group of bright minds who will go on to be lifelong advocates of the military.
“The main outcome of the course for me is engaging with bright people who will go off into their graduate careers with positive experiences of working with the MoD. Whether they set up a company or work in industry, they will be more inclined to work with defence because of taking the course. We need these people to solve the problems our nation may face in the future.”
Gordon appreciated the new and innovative way of tackling problems that H4MOD provides. He noted “the course gave us a really collaborative way of exploring a problem with people who don’t think like we do. It gave us a fresh perspective on the problem which is incredibly valuable.”
Have a problem you would like to submit? Take part in one of our upcoming online Problem Sourcing Seminars.
