Link 16

 

We have many years' experience in all aspects of Link 16 capability provided through the Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) Link 16 and its associated equipment and infrastructure.

 

Link 16 continues to propagate and expand, for example through the provision of Joint Range Extension Application Protocol (JREAP) capability.

 

Our SPIRIT process and tool set includes the capability to generate Interoperable Systems Management and Requirements Transformation (iSMART), or equivalent, documentation as required by our Customers.

 

 

Operations

 
A large percentage of our personnel are ex-military operators or engineering experts and we provide specialist knowledge across the full spectrum of Link 16 Network Enabled Capability (NEC) needs in the single service and joint warfare environments.
 
Our expertise includes:
 
  • Airborne Early Warning (AEW) communications in multi-threat environments.
  • Fighter real-time data exchanges for Air Defence and Close Air Support.
  • Ground environment data exchange and interoperability.
  • Multi-threat maritime operations.
  • Development of Link 16 message standards across all military environments.
  • Operational Test and Evaluation of platform NEC capabilities.
  • Link 16 Network Management.
 
Link 16 Network Management can be conducted stand-alone, but is usually addressed as part of multi-TDL network planning.  For more information about our Network Management capability, please click here.
 

Message Standards

 
The Link 16 message capability of most, if not all, platforms is invariably implemented as part of the mission or combat systems by dedicated platform engineers in response to specific information exchange requirements.  The interoperability of each Link 16 platform is critically dependent upon those platform engineers being provided with concise and accurate interface standards.
 
We continue to have extensive involvement in the ongoing process of improving and correcting the interface standards and offer significant standards management capability through our SPIRIT process.
 

Testing Support

 
Link 16 testing is a through-life activity that starts by confirming the theoretical implementation, testing conformance with the standards, and conducting live trials.
 
We provide support to the UK MOD covering all aspects of Wide Area Network testing for a number of air and surface platforms that operate Link 16, developing test strategies at the system and platform level.  As a major element of this activity, we operate and manage the UK Multi-Link Test Facility, including preparation of test scripts and analysis of results.
 
Test support is a fundamental aspect of our SPIRIT process that we can tailor to Customers' requirements, as necessary.
 

Terminals

 
MIDS terminals use complex message processing and RF control software with dedicated standards that are subject to rigorous configuration management and control.
 
Our personnel developed the Defence Policy and Procedures for configuration management and control of terminal-based equipment used by the UK.  We can provide technical support to either operate or advise on the national and international mechanisms for requesting, accessing, and agreeing terminal software changes and related terminal configuration management systems.