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| Photo: DLS |
[Avionics Magazine 12-19-2016] Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint venture between Rockwell Collins and BAE Systems, will provide improved tactical Link 16 communication capabilities for the F-16 fleet of Foreign Military Sales customers, the companies said in a statement released on Dec. 19. The U.S. Navy Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) has awarded DLS a $11.7 million contract for the production of Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVTs) for the F-16 Link 16 program and the option of $7.7 million for additional MIDS-LVT terminals.
“The F-16 aircraft conducts vital air-to-air and air-to-ground missions for the air forces of our allies,” said Doug Schmidt, director of DLS.
MIDS-LVT was developed by the MIDS International Program Office based in San Diego, California to provide Link 16 capability at a lower weight, volume and cost. Link 16 is a secure, high-speed Tactical Data Link (TDL) used by the United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) allies. MIDS-LVT provides real-time data communications, situational awareness and navigation, digital voice and Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN), all in a jam-resistant, crypto-secured package. DLS will perform the work in Wayne, New Jersey and Cedar Rapids, Iowa.