10:00-12.30 Workshop A: The Evolving Role, Nature and Importance of Submarine Communications

Led By:

Dr John R Potter
Principal Scientist, Systems Technology Department
Nato Underwater Research Centre

This workshop will explore key aspects of the following topics:

• How is the evolving role of the submarine changing the nature of communications needs?
• How is new technology changing the game for what is possible in submarine communications?
• What are the essential types and performance measures for communication?
  • covert/overt - passive/active
  • high/low bandwidth - long/short range
  • urgent/as-available - High/Low fidelity
• How important is it and what are the key features for submarine communications with various asset types and how is this related to the performance metrics?
  • Command centre - Aerial vehicles (including UAV)
  • Surface vehicles (including USV) - Submerged vehicles (including AUV)
  • Stationary assets
• What are the new challenges and opportunities for covert (as in undetected, not merely encrypted) communications?

By attending this workshop, you will:

• Gain a much greater understanding of your own vessels’ communication challenges
• Identify key areas of improvement for future operations from both a technological and TTP perspective
• Learn the advantages and difficulties behind direct communication with external assets, and how these assets can be best utilised to ensure mission success

13:30-16.00 Workshop B: A2AD Zones -The Submarine's Role in Establishing and Degrading Them

Led By:

Captain James Patton (Rtd)
President
SUB MARINE TACTICS AND TECHNOLGY

This workshop will stimulate discussion about what TTP variants are available and appropriate in a modern A2AD environment established by a militarily competent entity, and suggest what offensive options are available to the submarines who have successfully infiltrated that exclusion zone.

Discussions will include the most effective sequencing of offensive actions plus submarine survivability considerations when weighed against maximum persistency and minimum time-bandwidth products of connectivity required.

By attending this workshop, you will:

• Gain a detailed understanding of the challenges associated with utilizing submarines for A2AD operations
• Isolate specific challenges relating to your vessels and identifying what TTP ’s and solutions are available to help combat these challenges.
• Identify trends within the global submarine community, highlighting areas where partnership and co-operation would be mutually beneficial going forward.