Low Probability of Detection Communication Using Noncoherent Grassmannian Signaling

Abstract

This paper proposes a noncoherent low probability of detection (LPD) communication system based on direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) and Grassmannian signaling. Grassmannian constellations enhance covertness because they tend to follow a noise-like distribution. Simulations showed that Grassmannian signaling provides competitive bit error rates (BER) at low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) regimes with low probability of detection at the unintended receiver compared to coherent schemes that use QPSK or QAM modulation formats and need pilots to perform channel estimation. The results suggest the practicality and security benefits of noncoherent Grassmannian signaling for LPD communications due to their improved covertness and performance.