Link-16 Tactical Data Links: Developments from May 26, 2025 to June 01, 2025
Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link-16 Tactical Data Links have significantly enhanced secure military communications through integration with space-based systems and next-generation technologies. Strategic defense partnerships and initiatives continue to drive modernization efforts, ensuring improved interoperability and situational awareness for allied forces. These developments are supported by increased production of advanced communication systems and successful military exercises demonstrating new capabilities.
Advancements in Secure Military Communications
Link-16 continues to be a cornerstone of secure military communications, providing encrypted, real-time data exchange across various platforms. Recent developments have focused on enhancing the system’s capabilities through integration with space-based platforms, allowing for extended communication ranges and improved situational awareness. The integration of satellite networks, such as the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), has been pivotal in overcoming the traditional line-of-sight limitations of radio-based systems.
Source: Link-16.com
Integration of New Technologies
The integration of Link-16 with space-based platforms marks a significant technological leap. This capability extends the communication range globally, providing near-real-time data exchange. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has demonstrated the ability to transmit Link-16 data from space, a development that is expected to be a game-changer in strategic military operations, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Source: Link-16.com
Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives
Defense partnerships play a crucial role in the advancement of Link-16 capabilities. The U.S. Navy’s contract with L3Harris, valued at nearly $1 billion, underscores the importance of collaboration in enhancing communication technologies. This contract supports the delivery of resilient communication systems to U.S. and coalition forces, reinforcing interoperability and mission success.
Source: Military Embedded Systems
News from Defense Contractors
Viasat Inc. has announced an increase in production run rates for its Non-Developmental Item (NDI) Link-16 Next-Generation Tactical Data Links radios. The company is now producing over 200 radios per month to meet the growing demand from U.S. and international defense customers. These radios, including the Battlefield Awareness Targeting System-Embedded (BATS-E), are designed to provide enhanced network connectivity and situational awareness for unmanned platforms.
Source: Defense Advancement
Military Exercises and Industry Conferences
Recent military exercises have demonstrated the enhanced capabilities of Link-16, particularly in integrating space-based communication systems. These exercises have highlighted the system’s ability to provide real-time situational awareness and secure data exchange across multiple platforms. Upcoming industry conferences, such as the Potomac Officers Club’s 10th Annual Defense R&D Summit, will feature discussions on defense technology innovations, including advancements in Link-16. These events provide a platform for defense leaders to share insights and explore new opportunities for collaboration and technological integration.
Source: Link-16.com
Expert Insights
According to Major Tyler Levy at the Norwegian Foreign Defense Research Establishment, the integration of Link-16 with space-based systems is a “game-changing capability” that is just beginning to be fully realized. The ability to communicate using Link-16 via satellites in space, as demonstrated by Norwegian and American forces, opens up new operational opportunities and enhances the strategic capabilities of allied forces.
Source: Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI)
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