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DLS to deliver tactical and deployable Link 16 communication systems to U.S. Navy

Data Link Solutions to Deliver Tactical and Deployable Link 16 Communication Systems to U.S. Navy

May 2014

Multifunctional Information Distribution System Low Volume Terminal (MIDS LVT)
MIDS LVT

— Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint venture between Collins Aerospace and BAE Systems, has received a $32.3 million development contract from the U.S. Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR), for servicing U.S. Navy Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) - Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT) for its Block Upgrade 2 (BU2) configuration.

As one of the prime contractors, DLS will provide BU2-designated MIDS-LVT engineering support services and will develop MIDS-LVT enhancement production retrofit kits for this asset configuration. Designed to allow exchange of real-time situational awareness information and voice communications across the battle space, the MIDS-LVT is a versatile technology arming U.S. and allied assets across air, maritime, and ground platforms with secure, jam-resistant Link 16 communications.

“Through this important software upgrade contract in military situational awareness communications terminals, we will provide critical infrastructure software support and improved network situational awareness capabilities to Navy Link 16 reconnaissance users operating in the joint and combined warfare arena,” said Jack Stevens, director at DLS. “Our team at DLS is leading this transformation across the defence communications spectrum as one of the first to deliver and service a low-cost, certified tactical network capability, the Link 16 MIDS, to U.S. forces and to coalition partners worldwide as well.”

The MIDS-LVT provides the critical airborne, maritime and ground link in the Joint and Combined Warfare Arena, allowing simultaneous coordination of all forces in the area of operation while maintaining unmatched situational awareness. The digital data link technology enables radar information to be shared from the airborne warning and control system, while also presenting a real-time tactical picture identifying the locations of friendly and enemy forces across the battle space. As a Link 16 innovation leader, MIDS-LVT was developed by a multinational consortium to provide Link 16 capability at a lower weight, volume, and cost than the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS).

The $32.3 million contract is a modification to the $20 million indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract awarded in March 2010. Work under this new contract will be performed at DLS’ facility in Wayne, New Jersey, and is expected to be completed by March 2017.

About Data Link Solutions

DLS was established in 1996 by two of the world leaders in military communications, Collins Aerospace and BAE Systems, to pursue next-generation Link 16 and advanced data link applications. DLS is a leading supplier of Link 16 terminals and software, as well as logistics and support services for air, land, and sea-based platforms. The company has a heritage of more than 30 years of Link 16 design and production experience, with more than 10,000 Link 16 systems delivered worldwide to more than 45 nations.

DLS has provided MIDS terminals for more than 40 different platforms in 38 countries. Product offerings include the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System Class 2 family, the Multi-functional Information Distribution System (MIDS) LVT and LVT-3 Fighter Data Link, the MIDS-LVT-2, the MIDS-On-Ship, the URC-138 Link 16 terminal, TacNet™ Tactical Radio and various country-unique data links. DLS is one of the only companies to provide MIDS-LVT variants including the Fighter Data Link, MIDS LVT-2/11, and MIDS-JTRS.

Products
MIDS LVT
Coordinating airborne, maritime and ground forces
MIDS LVT 2/11
Situational awareness or command and control
MIDS FDL
Low-cost fighter terminal with flexible open architecture design