The US Navy has signed a $248m production contract with Data Link Solutions for hundreds of Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS) terminals intended for US and allied military forces.
Data Link Solutions is a joint venture of BAE Systems and Collins Aerospace, an RTX business.
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The MIDS JTRS terminals are designed to provide secure, jam-resistant Link 16 connectivity for voice, data, and video communications among air, ground, and maritime assets.
The system enables forces to share real-time tactical information, including relative position and targeting data, across multiple platforms to support operational decision-making in contested environments.
The four-channel, software-defined radio operates the Link 16 waveform and supports up to three additional communication protocols.
In addition to interoperability with Link 16, a standard communications system used by NATO, the US, and partner nations, the MIDS JTRS incorporates Tactical Targeting Networking Technology.
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By GlobalDataThis technology offers low latency and high throughput for platform connectivity under challenging conditions.
The US Department of Defense has deployed the MIDS JTRS on fighter aircraft including the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, and F-22, as well as on maritime vessels and command and control ground vehicles.
Production for this programme takes place at facilities in Wayne, New Jersey, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Data Link Solutions director Brian Shadiack said: “This contract demonstrates the ongoing need to equip our warfighters with a high-performing, secure command and control solution and our commitment to deliver at the speed of need.
With increased production capacity, we will provide hundreds of MIDS JTRS radio terminals for more than 45 US and international platform types, including unmanned aerial vehicles and armoured C2 ground vehicles.”
Data Link Solutions supplies Link 16 terminals, related software, logistics support, and services across air, land, and sea platforms. The company has delivered more than 9,000 Link 16 systems to over 50 countries in the last 25 years.
In 2024, the US Navy signed an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) agreement with Data Link Solutions (DLS) for the MIDS JTRS. The contract, which could reach a value of $1bn, covers continued production, upgrades, development, and support of the MIDS JTRS system.
