Joint Network Emulator (JNE) library, Powered by EXata, is a live-virtual-constructive (LVC) simulation platform for the development, test, and evaluation of battlefield communications networks, applications, and net-enabled systems. JNE uses EXata as the underlying network emulation software and leverages its efficient parallel discrete-event simulation kernel and system-in-the-loop interfaces. Using both a parallel discrete-event simulation kernel and system-in-the-loop interfaces, JNE can run accurate battlefield simulations. To facilitate these simulations, clients can use live network hardware such as radios and routers, along with network software including network managers and monitoring software. In addition, users can implement various mission command applications such as video streaming and situation awareness applications. JNE was originally based on the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS), but it now allows for performance modeling and simulation of multi-domain tactical communications.
The platform focuses on simulating communications across all domains: land, sea, air, space, and cyber. To add to JNE’s existing capabilities, SCALABLE has also connected JNE with StealthNet, our expansive library of cyber attack and defense models. Using StealthNet in conjunction with JNE, you can accurately gauge the security and resiliency of battlefield networks as well as operational mission threads.
The JNE library is ideal for military planning, testing, and training operations. It enables the simulation of large-scale military communications networks under a wide variety of conditions. You can connect physical radios with multiple simulated radios through JNE, which gives users the ability to realistically simulate large tactical radio networks consisting of both physical and simulated components. Users can also develop, emulate, and run multiple simulated radio form models using the JNE library to test, plan, and train.
Introducing Mission CLONE (Cyber Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC) Operational Network Environment)
SCALABLE has leveraged its innovative network digital twin capability to develop the Mission-CLONE. Mission CLONE provides advanced training and assessment solutions to assess and improve cyber resilience of Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) missions. JADC2 relies on a geographically dispersed, connected network of sensors, platforms, and weapon systems operating in harsh and contested environments to achieve mission success.
SCALABLE’s Mission CLONE provides the following innovative capabilities:
-
- Integration of cyber and kinetic domains, without modifications
- Includes wireless and tactical waveforms and their specific vulnerabilities
- Integration with Cyber-Physical Systems and simulations (e.g., submarine control systems)
- Integrates non-IP communications (e.g. 1553 bus)
- Attacks can be launched against the network and connected weapon and C2 subsystems
- Small hardware footprint to support in-theatre use
- Ability to include known and zero-day vulnerabilities
- Assess in parallel:
- Command and staff to modify operations and complete the mission, and
- Network defenders to detect and react to threats as they occur
JNE Architecture Allows for Versatile Emulation
Both the JNE library architecture and EXata software enable highly scalable LVC simulation and modeling, which can keep battlefield network architecture planning both simplified and affordable. Users can run radio systems such as Wideband Network Waveform (WNW) and Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW) on live radios, along with their respective emulations within JNE. At the same time, live network managers can operate emulated networks the same way they can with physical networks. JNE can effectively and accurately help develop a network digital twin to emulate many potentially difficult environments such as mountainous areas, cities, and mixed land and air deployments, along with other scenarios for mission success.
Battlefield Communications Models
When simulating battlefield communications, you can use various models, from WNW and SRW to various satellite communications (SATCOM) and tactical data (TDL) links. To facilitate realistic simulations, JNE can connect a variety of hardware, software, and net-enabled systems using different radio systems such as WNW and SRW radios, along with systems including Semi-Automated Force Generators (SAFs) like ONESAF, Tactical Airspace Integration Systems (TAIS), and Simulation Testing and Operations Rehearsal Model (STORM). When it comes to network managers and monitoring software, JNE can also interface with JTRS Enterprise Network Manager (JENM), Wireshark, and other software. Both Link 11 and Link-16 protocols are also included in the JNE platform’s Military Radios library.
JNE Use Cases
JNE has been used in more than 30 different projects, including US Department of Defense programs such as the US Army Operational Test Command (OTC). The OTC used JNE to model the JTRS radio, interfacing with the live JTRS Enterprise Network Manager (JENM). JNE helped demonstrate the functionality of the JENM and assess scalability based on varying operational conditions. To help enable large-scale simulations, the US Army also implemented JNE with their large BCNIS test suite, which they used to interface with and simulate live networks for operational and developmental testing. In one scenario, the US Army tested a network of many GMR radio emulations in BCNIS that interfaced with several live GMR radios, which helped improve scalability without the need for many physical assets. This helped save the US Army a net total of over $10 million in testing.
Another JNE use case involved the use of JNE in conjunction with other simulators to run an LVC simulation exercise involving more than 550 tactical radio emulations. These emulations featured realistic traffic loading to help simulate a particular exercise. JNE was able to emulate tactical network architecture with both Link-16 and satellite networks, along with JTRS radios that were augmented with unique radio/router architectures and aerial tiers. Together, JNE ran these networks over a satellite framework with a ONESAF simulation. In the end, the lack of live systems led to cost savings for the US Army of approximately $800 million.
Datasheet