The Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) is an integrated effort to network multiple weapon system platforms and forward combat units where it matters most - at "the last tactical mile". Deploying communications equipment based on the JTRS standards across the different branches of domestic and allied forces (and their civilian counterparts) enables reliable intra- and inter-service communications throughout dynamic environments (such as battlefields or disaster areas).

But, in order to be comprehensively compatible with the wide variety of "legacy" radios currently deployed by different services, the JTRS specifications are quite sophisticated using software-defined radios that cover dozens of waveforms (some of which are export-controlled under ITAR).

Radio communications provides the fundamental command and control fabric - and frequently the lifeline - for highly mobile forces in a distributed environment. Equipment and applications developers, operational planners, and warfighters who will be in theater all need to understand the behavior of these new radios and their impact on processes, procedures, strategies and tactics.

But, the transition from all of the "legacy" communications systems to JTRS-based equipment takes time, due to both economics and logistics. The impacted parties want to engage in planning, testing and training, but, until they actually receive the new gear, how do they get experience? And, once they have some new gear, how can that be leveraged into understanding behavior in large scenarios? 

JTRS Network Emulator

To address the various planning, testing and training needs during this extended technology transition, SCALABLE entered into a partnership with the US Navy to develop an active JTRS simulation tool.  The JTRS Network Emulator (JNE) is software that enables users to gain realistic "hands-on" experience with JTRS technology, in a completely virtual environment. These virtual models can also be integrated with live physical hardware (both legacy and JTRS-based) and actual software applications running "on top of" the mixed mode virtual-live communications fabric. Almost any type of communications scenario can be experienced and evaluated in "high definition".

The JNE is based on the SCALABLE EXata® simulation engine, plus a custom Model Library of the JTRS waveforms. 

Usage

• In advance of receiving actual JTRS-based gear, commanders can plan for the deployment of the new technology. Reading spec sheets is all well and good, but until there is hands-on experience it's difficult to really know how new pieces will fit in.
• High level applications, such as VoIP, can be developed and tested "live" on top of highly realistic software virtual networks.
• Newer isn't always better, since it sometimes changes things that worked well before. Commanders can test the impact of new equipment on established policies and procedures, and the effects of interaction with other equipment, without executing full scale live exercises.
• When new gear arrives, you want to take advantage of it immediately. But, users need training. Train people to really understand new gear before you have the new gear. Users can gain experience working as a part of a large mission, learning effective procedures until they are second nature.