Blockchain-Enabled Management Framework for Federated Coalition Networks

TL;DR

The paper addresses the need for secure, interoperable management of Federated Coalition Networks (FCNs) by proposing a blockchain-enabled framework. It designs an architecture aligned with NATO’s FMN goals and NATO Architecture Framework v4, detailing two functional pillars: Service Policy and Network functionalities, including decentralized PKI and policy enforcement via smart contracts. A proof-of-concept on the Avalanche testnet demonstrates encrypted, auditable on-chain transactions and reliable policy/PKI operations, supporting multi-national C2 coordination. The work highlights improved security, transparency, and resilience for coalition operations and provides a practical blueprint for integrating blockchain into FMN ecosystems.

Abstract

In a globalized and interconnected world, interoperability has become a key concept for advancing tactical scenarios. Federated Coalition Networks (FCN) enable cooperation between entities from multiple nations while allowing each to maintain control over their systems. However, this interoperability necessitates the sharing of increasing amounts of information between different tactical assets, raising the need for higher security measures. Emerging technologies like blockchain drive a revolution in secure communications, paving the way for new tactical scenarios. In this work, we propose a blockchain-based framework to enhance the resilience and security of the management of these networks. We offer a guide to FCN design to help a broad audience understand the military networks in international missions by a use case and key functions applied to a proposed architecture. We evaluate its effectiveness and performance in information encryption to validate this framework.

Figures (3)

• Figure 1: Coalition hierarchy.
• Figure 2: Scenario location.
• Figure 5: Transaction details validation.