Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. / In military operations, covertness of operation is of paramount importance. The transmission power of the data link must be kept to the minimum to maintain a low probability of detection (LPD) from the adversary. However, a reduction in the transmitted power implies a reduction in the operating range, though the detection range by the enemy is also reduced. Therefore, to reduce the enemy’s detection range while maintaining operating distance, this thesis explores strategies to discriminate gain against an adversary’s sensor. The strategies involve using processing gain, directional antennas, polarization and the natural environment as a transmission shield. The processing gain strategy analyzed in this thesis uses a diversity technique called Maximal Ratio Combining (MRC) applied to an IEEE 802.16a link. Sinclair D. Smith carried out a study on the possible processing gain derivable from this technique and this thesis will bring his results to practical applications via link analyses. In the event that the link is detected and the enemy decides to carry out jamming, the thesis explores a possible anti-jamming (AJ) strategy by using MRC and a directional antenna. Daniel P. Zastrow carried out a study on the AJ capability of MRC and this thesis brings his results to practical applications via link analyses. / Major, Republic of Singapore Airforce

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