Common Data Link Executive Agent (CDL EA)

The Common Data Link Executive Agent (CDL EA) program, managed by the Air Force, aims to establish a standardized, interoperable data link system for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) across various Department of Defense (DoD) platforms. This initiative focuses on ensuring compliance with DoD mandates by developing and maintaining specifications for the CDL waveform family. The program's objectives include enhancing design configuration control, commonality, and interoperability among ISR platforms to support Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) operations.

A key goal of the CDL EA is to advance technology in areas such as higher data rates, open architecture development, and cryptographic modernization. The program supports research and development activities that address tactical, operational, and strategic ISR needs. This includes improving spectrum efficiency, terminal design enhancements, and operations in contested environments. Additionally, it emphasizes the development of miniaturized cryptographic devices to enhance Transmission Security (TRANSEC) capabilities while reducing Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) requirements.

The CDL EA also focuses on specification development and validation to ensure open interoperability and competition within the defense industry. This involves working with industry partners and DoD services to document and test common terminal control interfaces using commercially recognized standards. The program aims to maintain configuration control of CDL architecture and develop test equipment capable of compliance testing with updated specifications.

Cryptographic modernization is another critical objective of the CDL EA program. Efforts are directed towards minimizing certification requirements while standardizing Communications Security (COMSEC) implementation. The program seeks to incorporate new cryptographic algorithms into various core form factors and ensure that CDL waveforms meet evolving TRANSEC requirements. Collaboration with international partners is also a priority to support secure encrypted ISR data exchange among allied nations.