The U.S. Navy has signed a USD 248 million contract with Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint venture between BAE Systems and Collins Aerospace, for the production of hundreds of MIDS JTRS tactical radio terminals.
Data Link Solutions (DLS) has received a new USD 248 million production contract from the U.S. Navy aimed at enhancing the tactical communications capabilities of U.S. and allied forces. Under the contract, deliveries will be made of Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS) terminals, one of the critical requirements of the modern battlefield.
Advanced Command and Control and Link 16 Integration
MIDS JTRS is a four-channel, software-defined radio system designed to operate the complex Link 16 waveform and three additional communications protocols. The system provides line-of-sight voice, video, and data transmission among naval, land, and air elements, while its resistance to jamming creates a secure communications network.
By enabling real-time sharing of relative position and target data among joint forces, the system delivers a high level of situational awareness that supports rapid decision-making, particularly in contested scenarios.
To Be Used on More Than 45 Platforms
In a statement on the matter, Data Link Solutions Director Brian Shadiack noted that, with increased production capacity, they will supply hundreds of terminals for more than 45 platform types, including unmanned aerial vehicles and armored command and control (C2) vehicles.
The system is currently actively used on the following platforms:
Air Platforms: F-15, F-16, F/A-18, F-22 aircraft, as well as MQ-25 and MQ-28 UAVs.
Naval Platforms: Various classes of naval vessels.
Land Platforms: Command and control elements.
Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT)
In addition to standard Link 16 compatibility, MIDS JTRS also features advanced Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT) capability. This feature provides low-latency, high-capacity data transmission, ensuring that critical platforms remain connected even in dense electronic warfare environments.
Source :C4Defence / BAE Systems
