Written by Maral Kaplan, Anna Corrente, Eugenio Montalti

Mobile Ad Hoc Networks, also known as MANETs, are self-configuring networks of wireless devices whose applicability ranges from civilian and commercial uses to highly tactical military strategies. The variety of MANETs characteristics and typologies, together with their significant usage adaptability, make these technologies particularly advantageous when deployed in critical contexts. More specifically, these types of technologies are expected to be increasingly relevant for distant communication needs, and their role in military tactics could be crucial when adopted in contemporary battlefield. Nevertheless, as it will be discussed, the adoption of MANETs brings with it definitive opportunities as well as critical challenges that still need to be addressed.