TOU06: Multi-Environment Drone Swarms to Strengthen the Communication Network of a Naval Fleet

This topic aims to explore the convergence of naval robotics, distributed systems, and network resilience strategies.  In degraded or contested environments (loss of satellite connectivity, electromagnetic disruption), each drone can act as a relay node within a mesh communication network. 

Drones can carry communication equipment and be rapidly redeployed to cover areas where the network is weakened. 

The swarm can: 

• Create an autonomous local relay network (establishing a temporary mesh network via a swarm in an area without coverage or in a contested zone); 
• Extend the communication range between elements of the fleet (ships, submarines, drones, etc.), evaluating the maximum extension of a swarm with and without communication relays; 
• Serve as a backup solution for unit coordination. 

Contribution of AI:  With embedded AI, drones can enhance network resilience against failures by autonomously adapting their positioning. AI contributions could focus on: 

• Object identification;  Obstacle avoidance; 
• Optimization of telecommunications coverage; 
• Reorganization of the drone network to respond to failures of other nodes (such as lost ships or drones).

A digital or interactive tool based on a map or a multi-drones navigation algorithm to visualize drone positioning following a reorganization when communication is lost

Robotic, AI and software engineer