The Glue Logic of Choice for Drone Operators

The glue logic of choice for unmanned projects is what’s known as MOSA. MOSA which stands for Modular Open Systems Approach logic in the context of unmanned machines refers to a set of design principles and practices aimed at enhancing the flexibility, interoperability, and upgradeability of these systems. Back in early 2019 the secretaries of the Army, Navy, and Air Force put forth a memorandum for MOSA. This is the epitome of joint all domain command and control but on the smaller scale of sensors and unmanned machines that are implemented in the battlespace or during training evolutions.

1. Modularity

• Definition: Systems are built using interchangeable modules or components.
• Benefit: Easier upgrades and repairs, as components can be swapped without redesigning the entire system.
• Application in Unmanned Machines: Allows for quick adaptation of unmanned systems to new technologies or mission requirements by replacing or upgrading specific modules.

2. Interoperability

• Definition: Different systems or components can work together seamlessly.
• Benefit: Enhances cooperation between various unmanned systems and platforms, including those from different manufacturers.
• Application in Unmanned Machines: Ensures that unmanned systems can communicate and operate effectively with other systems, facilitating joint missions and data sharing.

3. Scalability

• Definition: Systems can be scaled up or down based on needs.
• Benefit: Flexibility to adjust system capabilities without extensive redesign.
• Application in Unmanned Machines: Allows for the deployment of unmanned systems in a wide range of scenarios, from small-scale operations to large-scale missions.

4. Technology Insertion

• Definition: The ability to integrate new technologies as they become available.
• Benefit: Keeps systems up-to-date with the latest advancements without complete overhauls.
• Application in Unmanned Machines: Facilitates the integration of new sensors, processors, or algorithms to enhance the performance of unmanned systems over time.

5. Cost Efficiency

• Definition: Reduction of lifecycle costs through reusable components and systems.
• Benefit: Lower development and maintenance costs.
• Application in Unmanned Machines: Achieves cost savings by using standardized parts and modules across different unmanned platforms.

6. Standardization

• Definition: Use of common standards and protocols.
• Benefit: Simplifies integration and ensures compatibility.
• Application in Unmanned Machines: Adoption of industry standards allows for the integration of third-party components and reduces vendor lock-in.

Practical Implementation:

• Design and Development: Unmanned machines are designed with open architectures that support modularity and standard interfaces.
• Procurement and Acquisition: Emphasis on acquiring systems that adhere to MOSA principles to ensure long-term flexibility and interoperability.
• Lifecycle Management: Continuous integration of new technologies and updates to existing systems in a cost-effective manner.

Examples in Unmanned Systems:

• Drones and UAVs: Modular payload bays that allow for different sensors or equipment to be easily swapped based on mission requirements.
• Autonomous Ground Vehicles: Standardized communication protocols that enable different vehicles to operate in a coordinated manner.
• Unmanned Maritime Systems: Scalable designs that can be adapted for various mission profiles, from surveillance to mine countermeasures.

Utilizing the glue logic of MOSA principality, the development and deployment of unmanned machines become more purely futuristic in a sense, in reality it’s adaptable, efficient, and future-proof, ensuring that they can meet evolving mission demands and technological advancements.

1. Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) Collection

• Application: Unmanned systems equipped with interchangeable SIGINT modules can be deployed to intercept and analyze enemy communications.
• MOSA Benefit: Modular SIGINT payloads allow for quick upgrades to new frequencies and encryption methods. Triangulation with these payloads and “Fox Hunting” is a clear and cut way to hunt signals.
• NOTE: There’s a few projects out there that do just that. Some are being held in secret and are fully capable of putting every single node and electronic footprint signal on a GUI display. And not to mention these products are doing it with spectrum dominance. Imagine seeing every signal in your area of operations.

2. Electronic Attack (EA)

• Application: Drones and other unmanned platforms can carry electronic jamming equipment to disrupt enemy radar and communications.
• MOSA Benefit: Swappable jamming modules enable adaptation to different threat environments and technologies.
• NOTE: Depending on the type of jamming module, in example how much noise we can throw at a target would be dependent on how much weight or configuration the drone can hold. To jam two $15k radios it takes $200 of amazon store bought equipment. The bigger the drone the more physical / electronic signature it may emit. EW is singlehandedly the most important feature of the current battlespace and all things C5ISRT.

3. Electronic Support (ES)

• Application: Unmanned systems can be used to detect and identify enemy electronic emissions, providing situational awareness.
• MOSA Benefit: Modular sensors can be updated or replaced as new electronic threats emerge.
• NOTE: Classic warflying and wardriving is the best thing going.

4. Cyber Warfare Operations

• Application: Deploy unmanned platforms to deliver cyber payloads for network infiltration or disruption.
• MOSA Benefit: Integration of new cyber tools and techniques through modular payloads ensures up-to-date capabilities.
• NOTE: If you can put a raspberry pi onto a drone of any kind. With the proper peripherals like GPS, Antenna, etc. You can launch WiFi attacks in addition to MITM attacks.

5. Deception Operations

• Application: Use unmanned systems to deploy electronic decoys that mimic friendly forces, confusing enemy sensors and decision-making.
• MOSA Benefit: Interchangeable decoy systems can be tailored to specific mission requirements and threat landscapes.
• NOTE: Deception comes in many ways. Audible sounds can distract and deter. Smoke deployment can create signals. Electronic interferences as many of the previously stated practical applications above. The list goes on!

6. Signal Jamming and Spoofing

• Application: Unmanned platforms can be used to jam enemy GPS signals or spoof navigation systems to misguide enemy forces.
• MOSA Benefit: Modular jamming/spoofing payloads can be adapted for different signal types and frequencies.
• NOTE: See #2’s notes. But spoofing can be found in repositories and exponentially multiplied

7. Radar Suppression

• Application: Use unmanned systems to carry out Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) missions by targeting enemy radar installations.
• MOSA Benefit: Modular electronic attack payloads can be optimized for different radar systems and updated as new threats are identified.
• NOTE: These modules can include radar jammers, decoys, and anti-radiation sensors. This enhances the ability to deploy diverse unmanned systems in a coordinated manner, leveraging different platforms for comprehensive radar suppression strategies.

8. Electronic Reconnaissance

• Application: Deploy unmanned platforms to map out enemy electronic order of battle, identifying the location and type of electronic emitters.
• MOSA Benefit: Sensor modules can be updated or replaced to keep pace with evolving enemy electronic systems.
• NOTE: Software Defined Radios rigged with spectrum dominance can absolutely work wonders. Now we put sensors and algorithms to track and monitor signals we find. Again triangulation!

9. Communications Relay

• Application: Use unmanned aerial or ground systems to establish and maintain communications links in contested environments.
• MOSA Benefit: Swappable communications modules ensure compatibility with various friendly force communications systems and frequencies.
• NOTE: It goes without saying. A drone with a mounted radio absolutely has less of a hard time making positive contact. With MIMO technology putting comms at the highest point to relay is pivotal.

10. Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) Operations

• Application: Deploy unmanned systems equipped with electronic warfare capabilities to detect and neutralize radio-controlled IEDs.
• MOSA Benefit: Modular EW systems can be rapidly adapted to counter new IED triggering methods and frequencies.
• NOTE: Knowing a couple breachers and sappers this is the fun part!