[Avionics Today 11-23-2015] Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint venture between BAE Systems and Rockwell Collins, has been awarded a contract from the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) to demonstrate the Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL) on the Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS).
The fourth generation F-16 fighter jet. Photo: Lockheed Martin.
DLS will work with SPAWAR and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory to support the sharing of mission-critical data to further bridge the interoperability communications gap between fifth-generation stealth aircraft and fourth-generation fighter jets. The enhanced communications capabilities will allow fourth-generation jets to receive more detailed information to improve situational awareness across the battlespace. Planned for the third quarter of 2015, the demonstration will use a MADL data link on a MIDS JTRS transceiver communicating with a fifth-generation stealth fighter reference implementation.
“Identified as a goal of the U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command, the MADL demonstration serves as a battlespace risk reduction activity for the broader fifth to fourth generation gateway procurement,” said DLS Director Doug Schmidt. “This planned laboratory demonstration continues DLS’ commitment to helping resolve the 5th to 4th generation communications gap, while improving situational awareness and mission success for our allied forces.”