Common Data Link Executive Agent (CDL EA)

The Common Data Link Executive Agent (CDL EA) program, managed by the Air Force, serves as the Department of Defense (DoD) standard for interoperable, multi-service, and multi-agency Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) datalinks. The primary goal of this program is to ensure that DoD manned and unmanned airborne and ground terminals can securely and efficiently exchange ISR data across all services and with allied partners. CDL EA is responsible for the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of the CDL waveform family, maintaining design configuration control, and ensuring interoperability among ISR platforms. This program is a critical enabler for Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control (CJADC2) operations, supporting the direct transmission of sensor data to a wide array of users and platforms.

CDL Technology Advancement is a major line item within the CDL EA program. Its objectives include evolutionary concept development, exploratory prototyping, and advanced technology demonstrations to address emerging capability gaps. Key focus areas are the development of more spectrally efficient and jam-resistant waveforms, lowering the probability of detection and interception, and supporting operations in contested environments. The program also invests in open architecture development, multi-node network management, and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance network management and ISR data fusion. These advancements are designed to meet Combatant Command demands for higher bandwidth, improved covertness, and robust communications across multiple platforms and domains.

CDL Specification Development, Validation, Test and Maintenance is another critical component. This effort encompasses the full systems engineering lifecycle for CDL and NATO STANAG 7085 specification development, including requirement decomposition, modeling, maturation, documentation, and validation. The objective is to ensure that CDL specifications remain accurate, up-to-date, and implementable by multiple vendors, thereby promoting open competition and interoperability. The program also supports the development of reference implementations, test equipment for compliance testing, and configuration management to maintain the integrity of the CDL architecture and standards.

CDL Cryptographic Modernization focuses on upgrading the Communications Security (COMSEC) and Transmission Security (TRANSEC) aspects of the CDL system. The goal is to maximize performance while reducing Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) requirements, and to support interoperability, modularity, and multi-level security. This modernization effort includes the development of miniaturized gigabit-rate cryptographic devices, incorporation of new cryptographic algorithms, and support for secure data exchange with allied and coalition partners. The program also aims to streamline National Security Agency (NSA) certification processes and ensure compliance with evolving DoD CIO requirements.

The CDL EA program is highly collaborative, involving partnerships with the Services, NSA, Joint Interoperability Test Command (JITC), Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), and industry. The Air Force, as the executive agent, coordinates cross-service teams to manage the development, maturation, and migration of CDL technologies. The program also funds studies and analyses to support requirements documentation, program planning, and execution, ensuring that future CDL capabilities align with the National Defense Strategy and operational needs.

Supporting activities include the development and maintenance of a fielded terminals database, technical support for specification development, and participation in NATO and coalition forums to ensure global interoperability. The program also invests in model-based systems engineering, open systems architecture frameworks, and advanced antenna technologies to further enhance CDL networking capabilities. Test and evaluation efforts are conducted in partnership with JITC and other agencies to validate compliance and performance in realistic operating environments.