
May 26, 2025 to June 01, 2025
Link 22 Developments: Advancements in Secure Military Communications
Executive Summary: Link 22, a NATO secure digital radio system, is enhancing military communications with improved interoperability and situational awareness. Recent developments include successful interoperability testing by Leonardo DRS and expanded deployment during international military exercises. These advancements underscore the strategic importance of Link 22 in modernizing defense communications and fostering international defense partnerships.
Introduction
Link 22, also known as NATO Improved Link Eleven (NILE), is a tactical data link system designed to enhance secure communications among NATO and allied forces. It is intended to replace the older Link 11 system, offering improved data rates, network capacity, and security features. This report explores the latest advancements in Link 22, focusing on secure military communications, integration of new technologies, defense partnerships, and strategic initiatives.
Advancements in Secure Military Communications
Link 22 provides beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) communications in the HF and UHF bands, enabling secure and reliable data exchange across various military platforms. Recent developments have focused on enhancing interoperability and situational awareness, crucial for modern military operations.
Leonardo DRS has successfully completed formal interoperability testing of its Link-22 Signal Processing Controller (SPC) within the NILE Link-22 Network. This achievement demonstrates compliance with Link-22 Block Cycle 9 specifications, ensuring full interoperability with NATO and allied partners. The SPC’s next-generation hardware and software architecture, coupled with software-defined radio and modem technologies, offer enhanced capabilities while maintaining operational reliability.
Source: Defense Advancement
Integration of New Technologies
Link 22’s integration with advanced technologies is pivotal in meeting current and emerging mission requirements. The system’s dynamic time division multiple access (TDMA) mechanisms allow for quick adaptation to changing communication structures during missions. Additionally, the use of frequency-hopping capability in HF and UHF radios ensures secure communications, even in hostile environments.
Rohde & Schwarz has been instrumental in optimizing and standardizing Link 22, contributing to international conferences, workshops, and demonstrations. Their involvement ensures that customers receive optimal solutions for their radio applications, with existing radios being upgradeable to support Link 22, thus protecting previous investments.
Source: Rohde & Schwarz
Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives
Link 22’s development and deployment are the result of collaborative efforts among NATO countries and defense contractors. The system’s deployment during the RIMPAC exercise demonstrated its effectiveness in connecting multiple platforms across seven nations, marking a significant leap forward in tactical communication.
The NILE Technical Team’s achievements during these exercises highlight the transformative potential of Link 22 for communication and interoperability. Their efforts align with the strategic goals of Program Executive Office Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (PEO C4I) and Command and Control Systems Program Office (PMW 150), ensuring naval forces are well-equipped for modern maritime operations.
Source: DVIDS Hub
Conclusion
Link 22 represents a significant advancement in secure military communications, offering enhanced interoperability, situational awareness, and strategic capabilities. The system’s successful integration and deployment underscore its importance in modernizing defense communications and fostering international defense partnerships. As Link 22 continues to evolve, it will play a crucial role in ensuring secure and reliable communications for NATO and allied forces.
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