ARMY LINK 16 SYSTEMS

The Army Link 16 Systems program is a vital part of the Army's modernization strategy, aimed at enhancing communication capabilities for joint operations. It seeks to improve interoperability among land, sea, and air forces by enabling secure, real-time data transfer through tactical data links. This initiative supports the acquisition of Link 16 terminals, gateways, and radios, which are crucial for maintaining secure communications through data encryption and frequency hopping techniques. The primary objective is to allow users to electronically observe the battlespace, identify threats, and acquire targets effectively.

A significant component within the Army Link 16 Systems program is the Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) Ground Variant. This effort focuses on modernizing the existing MIDS Low Volume Terminal by introducing a software-defined radio solution that enhances networking capabilities. The MIDS JTRS Ground Variant will eventually replace the current Army MIDS LVT variant, offering advanced features such as Concurrent Multi-netting (CMN), Concurrent Contentions Receive (CCR), Enhanced Throughput (ET), and Advanced TRANSEC capabilities. These improvements are intended to support various components including Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD), Aviation, Communication Gateways, and Ground Fires Radios.

In fiscal year 2025, plans include procuring MIDS JTRS Ground Variant systems along with associated equipment like B-Kit Production, A-Kit Production, Schoolhouse A-Kits, ancillaries, assessments, warranties, software licenses, and platform integration services. This procurement supports both active and reserve components of the Armed Forces in their homeland defense missions and domestic emergency responses. The increased procurement from fiscal year 2024 to 2025 indicates a ramp-up in efforts to achieve a Joint Full Operational Capability of 90% by fiscal year 2029.

Support activities for the Army Link 16 Systems involve system engineering and program management efforts necessary for successful implementation. These activities include technical publications, fielding support, initial spares and repair parts provisioning, system test and evaluation support, as well as training equipment provision. The program's emphasis on comprehensive support ensures that all aspects of system deployment are addressed efficiently to meet operational requirements.