Laura F. Hodges

Papers

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About

Laura F. Hodges is a leading researcher in tactical defence communications and unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with a particular focus on data ferrying and swarming technologies. Her most cited work, "Data Ferrying with Swarming UAS in Tactical Defence Networks" (2018, 9 citations), introduces a novel classification of swarm communication into four distinct categories, identifying two of these as highly promising for maintaining connectivity in contested radio-frequency environments. This contribution directly addresses critical challenges in modern military networks, where traditional communications are often disrupted or denied. Hodges’ research bridges the gap between theoretical swarm intelligence and practical defence applications, offering actionable frameworks for deploying UAS swarms as resilient data relays. Her work is notable for its clear, applied taxonomy that enables engineers and strategists to select appropriate swarm configurations for specific operational contexts. By advancing the integration of autonomous systems into tactical networks, Hodges has established herself as a key voice in the field of defence communications, with her findings informing both academic research and real-world military planning.