The objective of this project is to establish the fundamental underpinnings of low probability of detection (LPD) communication systems operating over classical or quantum mechanical channels. This provides a transformative impact in two ways: (1) establishing a new approach that transforms the largely dormant (and socially compelling) area of LPD communications; (2) introducing and developing the foundations of the LPD optical channel, which requires quantum mechanical considerations.
Intellectual merit:
The intellectual merit is based on a fundamental approach to the LPD communications problem that employs a broad array of tools to establish a new branch in the large field of wireless communications security. This project will also demonstrate the intellectual richness of the security problem that arises when quantum mechanical considerations are considered in optical communications. Tools from classical communications and networks, in particular information theory, mix with tools from quantum information systems.
Broader impacts:
The broader impacts are focused on impacting society and education. The hiding of the existence of transmissions while still communicating reliably has clear application in both military and civilian societal contexts. The results of this project will allow communicating parties and those whom attempt to detect them to understand the fundamental limits on such communication and techniques to achieve those limits. Finally, the project includes an integrated program of educational engagement that utilizes the extensive resources of both UMass-Amherst and BBN, with the latter contributing both theoretical expertise and experimental facilities for quantum information processing that will provide a unique opportunity for UMass students.
