3SDL supports Finnish Navy’s multi-link data link processor programme

3SDL has provided technical support to Navy Command Finland during the sea acceptance testing phase of the Finnish Navy's multi-link data link processor (M-DLP) programme.

During the week-long trials, Link 22, multi-functional information distribution system (MIDS)/Link 16 and joint range extension application protocol (JREAP) participated in a series of tests onboard the navy's second Hämeenmaa-class minelayer, FNS Uusimaa (05).

Conducted in the Finnish Archipelago and Northern Baltic Sea, the trials also involved a number of national sea, air and land platforms.

Commenting on the trials, 3SDL senior consultant Tom Vart said: "The sea acceptance testing provided an invaluable opportunity to test Link 16, 22 and JREAP, both CIU and data forwarding, in a 'real' scenario at sea onboard an operational warship."

The Finnish Ministry of Defence (MoD) is procuring a multi-link tactical data link (TDL) solution to enable the navy to develop interoperability benefits by fully integrating Link 22, MIDS/Link 16 and JREAP.

Since 2010, 3SDL has been supporting the naval command on the new SELEX ES-built M-DLP FN system's procurement and testing.

Capable of providing data forwarding capabilities, the M-DLP FN system will be integrated onto several combat ships in the Finnish Navy.

Powered by two Wärtsilä Vasa 16V22 diesel engines, driving two controllable pitch propellers, the 77m-long Hämeenmaa-class ships have a beam capacity of 11.6m, a draft of 3m and can accommodate a crew of 60.

In addition to SS2030 hull mounted sonar, the 1,450t minelayers are integrated with new CEROS 200 fire control system (FCS), advanced sensor systems such as the TRS3D-16ES surveillance radar and Kongsberg ST2400 variable depth sonar (VDS).

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Image: FNS Uusimaa stationed at the South Harbour, Helsinki. Photo: courtesy of Balcer.