DARPA’s Tactical Undersea Network Architecture program, or TUNA for short, has passed its initial development phase.
The next phase is to demonstrate a prototype of TUNA.
The project aims to restore temporary connectivity when tactical networks are down by using an undersea optical fiber backbone that involves dropping buoys into the ocean that would function as network nodes connected by an underwater fiber-optic network. The system would provide connectivity for up to 30 days.
“Phase 1 of the program included successful modeling, simulation, and at-sea tests of unique fiber-cable and buoy-component technologies needed to make such an undersea architecture work[ed],” DARPA program manager John Kamp said. “Teams were able to design strong, hair-thin, buoyant fiber-optic cables able to withstand the pressure, saltwater, and currents of the ocean, as well as develop novel power generation concepts.”
DARPA’s undersea network progresses to next stage
