In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for forming a mobile ad hoc network having a plurality of wireless communication links connecting a plurality of wireless mobile nodes. The present invention may apply a dynamic spectrum awareness algorithm to facilitate effective utilization of the available communications spectrum in an environment of the mobile ad hoc network, support both delay-sensitive and delay-tolerant traffic types on the mobile ad hoc network, and provide a defined quality of communications service for both the delay-sensitive and the delay-tolerant traffic.