An agent-based modeling framework for cybersecurity in mobile tactical networks

Abstract

Mobile tactical networks facilitate communication, coordination, and information dissemination between soldiers in the field. Their increasing use provides important benefits, yet also makes them a prime enemy target. Furthermore, their dynamic, distributed, and ad-hoc nature makes them particularly vulnerable to cyber attack. Unfortunately, most existing research on cybersecurity in mobile ad-hoc networks either uses simplistic mobility models that are easier to analyze mathematically or focuses on modeling the dynamics of civilian networks. In this work, we present an agent-based modeling framework to study malware spread in mobile tactical networks. Our framework includes military-inspired models of hierarchical command structure, unit movement, communication over short-range radio, self-propagating malware, and cyber defense mechanisms. We implement several example scenarios representing military units engaged in tactical operations on a synthetic battlefield. Finally, we conduct a case study, using agent-based simulation to analyze the impact of hierarchy and cybersecurity policies on malware spread. Our results support the claim that agent-based modeling is particularly well-suited for representing the complex organizational and spatial structures inherent to military operations, and we urge others to incorporate the key elements of our framework into existing modeling tools when performing studies of cyber attacks on mobile tactical networks and corresponding cybersecurity measures.

Interoperability analysis via agent-based simulation

“…22 Recently, Macal and North 23 have demonstrated the applicability of agent-based models to assess performance of complicated systems across a broad range of domains. More specific to this work, Tryhorn et al, 24 Thompson and Morris-King, 25 Diallo et al, 26 and Connors et al 27 have demonstrated the utility of agentbased simulation models to support analysis of multidomain systems where the individual components may reorganize flexibly and independently. This broad set of application examples underscores that agent-based simulation is well-suited for assessment of systems where agents behave autonomously and do not follow a predefined sequence of events.…”

Complexity Science and Cyber Operations: A Literature Survey

“…Often these models are preliminary simulations designed to ensure the simplest approach to modeling system functionality. Cyber descriptive models can be used to understand attack-defense scenarios in a variety of instances including botnets [55] , mobile networks [56] , and organizational manufacturing [21] . Descriptive models [53] .…”

Effectiveness Evaluation Method of Application of Mobile Communication System Based on Factor Analysis

“…Based on the above network planning assistant optimization system design, the mobile communication system networking scheme needs to be evaluated quickly and recommended in the order of the decision makers’ preferences. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a fast, objective and favorite-supporting network effectiveness evaluation method [ 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 ].…”