Link 16 Products

Whether engaging an adversary with advanced weapons systems or responding to an asymmetrical attack, U.S. and allied NATO forces must make well-informed, interoperational decisions swiftly in hostile environments, requiring the exchange of great quantities of accurate, reliable data securely and in real time.

For more than two decades, Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint venture of BAE Systems and Collins Aerospace (formerly Rockwell Collins), has developed and produced the world standard in tactical data link technologies, creating affordable, high performance, high reliability Link 16 terminals for 40 different platforms in 30 allied countries, plus various NATO organizations. DLS is the only supplier that manufactures, delivers, and supports all Link 16 variants. 

What is Link 16?

Link 16 is a standardized communications system for transmitting and exchanging real time tactical data using links between network participants, also known as TADIL J. It also uses Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) to provide multiple, simultaneous communication paths through different nets.

Link 16 is the standard by which other systems are measured for secure, airborne situational awareness. In fact, Link 16 has been credited by the U.S. Air Force as a key factor for saving lives in multiple theaters due to the increased situational awareness the system provides.

In contrast to other communications link waveforms, Link 16:

• Improves security
• Improves jam resistance
• Improves situational awareness
• Increases data throughput
• Increases capacity of information exchanged

Provides secure voice capability, relative navigation capability, and precise participant location and identification.

Key Link 16 products

Common data link (CDL) radios

Complete, affordable wideband wireless network radios for all domains.

MIDS Fighter Data Link Terminal

Gives pilots enhanced tactical capabilities, including improved situational awareness.

MIDS Low Volume Terminal

The latest generation of Link 16 equipment, incorporating secure data, voice, tactical air navigation, and relative navigation functions.

MIDS on Ship (MOS)

A low volume terminal (LVT) with high power output

Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) interface simulator (MIS)

The MIDS interface simulator maximizes operational flight hardware and software integration testing.

Multifunctional Information Distribution System - Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS)

Offering greater Link 16 operational effectiveness without increasing size, weight, or power demands.

TacNet™ Tactical Radio (TTR)

The smallest, most affordable, and greatest-range-for-its-size Link 16 terminal available today.

Data Link Solutions Support Equipment

Support equipment for Link 16 products

Worldwide Link 16 systems support

The strong legacy and dominant market position of DLS Link 16 solutions has allowed it to create innovative complementary integration, O-level, I-level, and D-level support solutions for each Link 16 terminal configuration. DLS is the logical choice for Link 16 support solutions.

DLS Link 16 support services include:

• Complete life cycle support
• Operational support
• Flight line through depot maintenance support
• Regional repair facilities
• Field service engineering
• Support equipment
• Training
• Technical information
• Repairs and spares
• Supply chain management

Learn more about Link 16 Products and Data Link Solutions (DLS). Visit the Data Link Solutions site today for complete details.

Link 16 products are produced by Data Link Solutions, a joint venture of BAE Systems and Collins Aerospace