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July 07, 2025 to July 13, 2025

July 07, 2025 to July 13, 2025

Link 22 Developments: July 2025

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link 22, a secure digital radio system, highlight significant progress in military communications technology. The integration of new technologies such as 5G and AI is enhancing interoperability and real-time responsiveness. Strategic defense partnerships and initiatives are further strengthening the capabilities and reach of Link 22 among NATO and allied nations.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22 continues to evolve as a critical component of secure military communications, providing beyond line-of-sight (BLOS) capabilities across various platforms. Recent developments emphasize the integration of advanced technologies such as 5G, which offers ultra-high-speed data transfer and minimal latency, crucial for real-time operations and decision-making in complex environments.

The integration of AI and machine learning is also being explored to enhance the cognitive control of communication systems, allowing for adaptive bandwidth and frequency management. This ensures robust and secure communication even in congested and contested environments.

Source: IDSTCH

Integration of New Technologies

The military communications landscape is witnessing a paradigm shift with the adoption of 5G and the integration of radio, satellite, and network systems. This integration ensures seamless interoperability between terrestrial and satellite networks, enhancing communication capabilities in remote and challenging terrains.

Additionally, situational awareness systems are being integrated to provide real-time data on battlefield conditions, significantly improving response times and operational efficiency. These systems leverage inputs from various sources, including UAVs and ground sensors, to deliver actionable intelligence to decision-makers.

Source: IDSTCH

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

Defense partnerships continue to play a pivotal role in the development and deployment of Link 22. The NILE program, funded and collaboratively conducted by seven nations, remains a cornerstone of these efforts. The program’s management by the Project Management Office (PMO) at NAVWAR ensures coordinated development and implementation across participating nations.

Recent initiatives focus on enhancing interoperability and cooperation among NATO and allied nations, with a particular emphasis on overcoming regulatory barriers that inhibit defense industrial cooperation. These efforts aim to strengthen the transatlantic defense industrial base and improve arms sales and technology transfer.

Source: CSIS

News from Defense Contractors and Industry Conferences

Defense contractors are actively involved in the development and deployment of Link 22, with ongoing collaborations to enhance system capabilities. Industry conferences and events provide platforms for sharing insights and advancements in military communications technology.

Recent discussions at industry conferences have highlighted the importance of integrating new technologies and strengthening defense partnerships to address emerging security challenges. These events also serve as opportunities for defense contractors to showcase their latest innovations and solutions.

Source: CSIS

June 30, 2025 to July 06, 2025

June 30, 2025 to July 06, 2025

Link 22 Developments: Secure Military Communications Report

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link 22, a secure digital radio system, have focused on enhancing military communication capabilities through the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Key developments include strategic partnerships and initiatives aimed at improving interoperability and security. Industry conferences and military exercises have further highlighted the importance of secure communications in modern defense strategies.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22 continues to evolve as a critical component of secure military communications, offering enhanced interoperability and security features. Recent developments have focused on integrating advanced encryption technologies and improving data transmission efficiency. These enhancements are designed to ensure robust communication capabilities in contested environments, providing military forces with reliable and secure channels for information exchange.

Integration of New Technologies

The integration of new technologies into Link 22 has been a focal point for defense contractors and military organizations. Innovations such as quantum encryption and artificial intelligence-driven network management are being explored to further secure communications and optimize network performance. These technologies aim to provide a strategic advantage by ensuring that military communications remain secure against evolving cyber threats.

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

Strategic partnerships have been instrumental in advancing Link 22 capabilities. Collaborations between defense contractors and military organizations have facilitated the sharing of expertise and resources, leading to the development of more sophisticated communication systems. Initiatives such as joint training exercises and technology demonstrations have been pivotal in testing and refining Link 22’s capabilities in real-world scenarios.

News from Defense Contractors and Industry Conferences

Defense contractors have been actively involved in the development and deployment of Link 22 systems. Recent announcements highlight the role of industry leaders in advancing secure communication technologies. Industry conferences have provided a platform for showcasing the latest advancements and discussing future trends in military communications. These events have underscored the importance of continuous innovation and collaboration in maintaining secure and effective communication networks.

Training and Military Exercises

Training programs and military exercises have played a crucial role in ensuring the effective implementation of Link 22 systems. These activities have focused on familiarizing military personnel with the new technologies and protocols associated with Link 22. By simulating real-world scenarios, these exercises have helped identify potential challenges and areas for improvement, ensuring that military forces are well-prepared to utilize Link 22 in operational settings.

Expert Insights

Experts in the field of military communications emphasize the importance of secure and reliable communication systems in modern warfare. The advancements in Link 22 are seen as a significant step forward in achieving this goal. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and fostering strategic partnerships, Link 22 is poised to enhance the communication capabilities of military forces, providing a critical advantage in complex and contested environments.

Sources: Financial Times, The New York Times, Defense News, Military & Aerospace Electronics

June 23, 2025 to June 29, 2025

June 23, 2025 to June 29, 2025

Link 22 Developments: June 2025

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link 22, a secure digital radio system, have significantly enhanced military communication capabilities. Key developments include successful interoperability testing, strategic defense partnerships, and the integration of advanced technologies. These initiatives are set to improve situational awareness and operational coordination across NATO and allied forces.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22, a secure digital radio link operating in the HF and UHF frequency bands, is poised to replace the existing Link 11 system by 2025. This transition is driven by Link 22’s enhanced capabilities, including optimized information processing, higher data rates, and improved resistance to interference. The system’s dynamic time division multiple access (TDMA) mechanisms allow for rapid adaptation to changing communication structures during missions, ensuring secure and efficient data exchange among military units.

Source: Rohde & Schwarz, Naval Technology

Integration of New Technologies

Recent developments have focused on integrating advanced functionalities into Link 22 to facilitate collaborative combat in secure environments. Thales and Atos have been instrumental in developing these functionalities, which are expected to enhance decision-making speed on the battlefield. Additionally, the integration of the TopLink system allows for the management of tactical messages for airborne units using Link 16 and Joint Range Extension standards.

Source: Naval Technology

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

Link 22’s development has been a collaborative effort among seven NATO countries, with the United States acting as the host nation. The system’s deployment is governed by agreements with the NILE program management, ensuring that non-NATO countries can also benefit from its capabilities. The recent Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise demonstrated Link 22’s effectiveness, connecting ten platforms across seven nations and highlighting the system’s potential for enhancing interoperability and communication.

Source: DVIDS

News from Defense Contractors

Leonardo DRS has completed formal interoperability testing of its Link-22 Signal Processing Controller (SPC) within the NILE Link-22 Network. This achievement ensures full interoperability with NATO and allied partners, supporting operations and exercises in the INDOPACOM theater. The SPC’s compliance with Link-22 Block Cycle 9 specifications positions Leonardo DRS as a key player in the production and advancement of Link 22 technology.

Source: Military Embedded Systems

Training and Military Exercises

SCYTALYS has secured contracts to provide Link-22 connectivity and in-service support for Canada’s TIC3 Air Project. This initiative aims to enhance Canada’s tactical data link capabilities through comprehensive training sessions for operators and maintainers. The training will cover deployment, setup, operation, and maintenance, ensuring proficiency in using the new system. The project also includes the integration of a secure deployable Link-22 TDL system with existing and new infrastructure.

Source: Defense Arabia

Industry Conferences and Expert Insights

Rohde & Schwarz continues to play a pivotal role in the optimization and standardization of Link 22. The company actively participates in international conferences, workshops, and demonstrations, contributing to the system’s development and ensuring that customers receive optimal solutions for their radio applications. The company’s involvement in various NATO working groups underscores its commitment to advancing Link 22 technology.

Source: Rohde & Schwarz

June 16, 2025 to June 22, 2025

June 16, 2025 to June 22, 2025

Link 22 Developments: June 2025

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link 22 have focused on enhancing secure military communications through the integration of cutting-edge technologies and strategic defense partnerships. Key developments include the adoption of AI and machine learning for improved data processing and decision-making, as well as increased interoperability among allied forces. These initiatives are supported by significant investments from defense contractors and collaborative efforts in military training and exercises.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22 continues to evolve as a critical component of secure military communications, offering enhanced interoperability and data exchange capabilities among NATO and allied forces. Recent developments have emphasized the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies to improve real-time data processing and decision-making. These advancements aim to provide military units with a more robust and responsive communication framework, essential for modern warfare scenarios.

Source: Market Research Future, Industry Today

Integration of New Technologies

The integration of AI and ML into Link 22 systems is revolutionizing military communications by enabling predictive communication routing and enhanced threat assessment. This technological leap is complemented by the convergence of Link 22 with 5G and satellite-based systems, offering unprecedented speed, security, and global reach. These innovations are expected to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of military forces, ensuring secure and efficient communication across various domains.

Source: Market Research Future, Industry Today

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

Strategic partnerships and collaborations remain a cornerstone of Link 22’s development. The NILE (NATO Improved Link Eleven) program, which oversees Link 22, continues to foster cooperation among participating nations, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. These partnerships are crucial for the ongoing enhancement of Link 22’s capabilities and the successful implementation of new technologies.

Source: Wikipedia, Canada Department of National Defence

News from Defense Contractors

Defense contractors such as Thales Group and Raytheon Technologies have been actively investing in research and development to advance Link 22’s capabilities. These companies are focusing on enhancing interoperability, increasing data throughput, and integrating satellite communication technologies. Their efforts are pivotal in maintaining the technological edge of Link 22 in the rapidly evolving landscape of military communications.

Source: Market Research Future, Industry Today

Training and Military Exercises

Comprehensive training programs are being implemented to ensure that military personnel are proficient in operating and maintaining Link 22 systems. These programs include detailed sessions on deployment, setup, operation, and maintenance, ensuring that operators and maintainers are well-equipped to handle the complexities of the system. Additionally, military exercises are being conducted to test and refine the operational capabilities of Link 22 in real-world scenarios.

Source: Defense Arabia

Industry Conferences

Industry conferences continue to play a vital role in the dissemination of knowledge and the exchange of ideas related to Link 22. These events provide a platform for defense experts, industry leaders, and military personnel to discuss the latest advancements, share insights, and explore future trends in secure military communications. The collaborative environment fostered by these conferences is instrumental in driving innovation and ensuring the continued evolution of Link 22.

Source: Industry Today

June 09, 2025 to June 15, 2025

June 09, 2025 to June 15, 2025

Link 22 Developments: June 2025

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link 22, a secure digital radio system, highlight significant progress in military communications technology. Key developments include enhanced interoperability, strategic defense partnerships, and successful military exercises demonstrating the system’s capabilities. These initiatives underscore the importance of Link 22 in modernizing tactical data link systems for NATO and allied forces.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22 continues to evolve as a critical component of secure military communications, offering beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) capabilities that interconnect air, surface, subsurface, and ground-based tactical data systems. The system’s ability to provide real-time data exchange and situational awareness across various military domains is pivotal for NATO and allied operations.

Recent interoperability testing by Leonardo DRS has confirmed the Link 22 Signal Processing Controller’s compliance with NATO Improved Link Eleven (NILE) standards, ensuring seamless integration with allied partners. This development is crucial for maintaining robust communication channels during joint operations and exercises.

Source: Military Embedded Systems, August 20, 2021

Integration of New Technologies

Rohde & Schwarz has played a significant role in optimizing and standardizing Link 22, contributing to the development of interfaces for EPM UHF radios with frequency-hopping capabilities. These advancements enhance the system’s resilience against interference and ensure secure communications across different frequency bands.

Additionally, the integration of software-defined radios, such as the Rohde & Schwarz M3SR family, has demonstrated error-free operation with Link 22 modems, further solidifying the system’s reliability and adaptability in dynamic mission environments.

Source: Rohde & Schwarz

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

The NILE Project Management Office (PMO) has been instrumental in advancing Link 22’s capabilities through international collaboration. During the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024 exercise, Link 22 successfully connected platforms across seven nations, showcasing its effectiveness in enhancing naval communication and interoperability.

SCYTALYS has secured contracts to provide Link 22 connectivity and in-service support for Canada’s TIC3 Air Project, marking a significant step in enhancing Canada’s tactical data link capabilities. This initiative includes comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure the system’s proficiency and reliability.

Source: Defense Arabia, DVIDS

Training, Military Exercises, and Industry Conferences

Link 22’s deployment during RIMPAC 2024 involved a multi-stage exercise, including preliminary tests, in-harbor phases, and tactical at-sea operations. These exercises demonstrated the system’s ability to maintain connectivity and operational readiness across diverse maritime environments.

Industry conferences and workshops continue to play a vital role in disseminating knowledge and best practices related to Link 22. These events foster collaboration among defense contractors, military personnel, and technology providers, driving further advancements in tactical data link systems.

Source: DVIDS, Military Embedded Systems

Conclusion

Link 22 represents a significant leap forward in secure military communications, offering enhanced interoperability, strategic partnerships, and cutting-edge technology integration. As NATO and allied forces continue to adopt and refine this system, Link 22 is poised to become a cornerstone of modern tactical data link capabilities, ensuring effective and secure communications in complex operational environments.

June 02, 2025 to June 08, 2025

June 02, 2025 to June 08, 2025

Link 22 Developments: June 2025

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link 22, a secure digital radio system, have significantly enhanced military communication capabilities. The integration of new technologies and strategic defense partnerships are driving improvements in interoperability and operational efficiency. Key developments include successful military exercises, training initiatives, and industry collaborations that underscore the system’s growing global adoption.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22, a tactical data link system, continues to evolve as a critical component of secure military communications. It offers beyond-line-of-sight capabilities, enabling seamless interconnection of air, surface, subsurface, and ground-based tactical data systems. This advancement is crucial for maintaining secure and reliable communications in complex operational environments.

Source: The Defense Post

Integration of New Technologies

The integration of advanced technologies into Link 22 has been a focal point for enhancing its capabilities. The system now supports higher data rates and improved network topology, allowing for more flexible and resilient communication structures. The use of dynamic time division multiple access (TDMA) mechanisms further enhances its adaptability during missions.

Source: Rohde & Schwarz

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

Link 22’s development and deployment have been bolstered by strategic partnerships among NATO countries and other allied nations. The NILE (NATO Improved Link Eleven) program has been instrumental in coordinating these efforts, ensuring interoperability and standardization across different military platforms. The program’s success is evident in the increasing number of nations adopting Link 22.

Source: DVIDS

News from Defense Contractors

Defense contractors like SCYTALYS have secured significant contracts to provide Link 22 connectivity and support. These contracts include the development and deployment of Link 22 systems, as well as comprehensive training and in-service support to ensure the systems remain up-to-date and effective.

Source: Defense Arabia

Training and Military Exercises

Training initiatives and military exercises have played a crucial role in demonstrating Link 22’s capabilities. Recent exercises have successfully connected multiple platforms across several nations, showcasing the system’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios. These exercises are vital for refining operational procedures and ensuring readiness.

Source: DVIDS

Industry Conferences

Industry conferences, such as MILSATCOM USA, provide a platform for discussing the future of military communications, including advancements in Link 22. These events bring together industry leaders and government officials to explore new technologies and strategies for enhancing military communication systems.

Source: SMG Conferences

May 26, 2025 to June 01, 2025

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.

May 19, 2025 to May 25, 2025

May 19, 2025 to May 25, 2025

Link 22 Developments: May 2025

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link 22, a secure digital radio system, highlight its growing role in enhancing NATO’s naval communication capabilities. Key developments include integration with advanced technologies, strategic defense partnerships, and successful interoperability testing. These initiatives underscore Link 22’s potential to replace Link 11, offering improved data exchange and situational awareness across military domains.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22, a NATO secure digital radio system, is designed to provide beyond-line-of-sight communications in the HF and UHF bands. It is set to replace the existing Link 11 system by 2025, offering enhanced data rates and the ability to host more participants. The system’s dynamic time division multiple access (TDMA) mechanisms allow for quick adaptation to changing communication structures during missions, ensuring robust and secure data exchange.

Source: Rohde & Schwarz, Naval Technology

Integration of New Technologies

Recent tests conducted by Rohde & Schwarz in Germany and France have demonstrated the compatibility of their software-defined radios with Link 22 modem types. This compatibility ensures that existing radio systems can be upgraded to support Link 22, protecting customer investments. Additionally, the integration of Link 22 into naval surveillance systems, such as the LYNCEA combat management system by NEXEYA France, highlights its modular architecture and adaptability to various ship types.

Source: Rohde & Schwarz, Military Embedded Systems

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

Thales and Atos have collaborated to develop advanced Link 22 functionalities for the TopLink tactical datalink processor. This partnership aims to enhance collaborative combat capabilities in secure environments, facilitating real-time communication and decision-making on the battlefield. Furthermore, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions has announced Link 22 support for its suite of Tactical Data Link solutions, enhancing interoperability and capability for the US military and coalition partners.

Source: Naval Technology, Defense Advancement

News from Defense Contractors and Industry Conferences

Leonardo DRS has successfully completed interoperability testing of its Link-22 Signal Processing Controller within the NATO Improved Link Eleven (NILE) network. This achievement ensures compliance with Link-22 Block Cycle 9 specifications, supporting operations and exercises in the INDOPACOM theater. The active participation of Rohde & Schwarz in international Link 22 conferences and workshops further emphasizes the ongoing efforts to optimize and standardize this tactical data link.

Source: Defense Advancement, Rohde & Schwarz

Training and Military Exercises

The French Navy has been testing Link 22 capabilities during its Indo-Pacific deployment, including exercises such as La Perouse 25 and Pacific Steller. These tests aim to validate the system’s performance and integration across French aerial and naval platforms, paving the way for the eventual replacement of Link 11.

Source: The Aviationist

May 12, 2025 to May 18, 2025

May 12, 2025 to May 18, 2025

Link 22 Developments: May 2025

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in Link 22, NATO’s secure digital radio system, have focused on enhancing interoperability and communication capabilities across various military platforms. Key developments include the integration of Link 22 into naval surveillance systems and the expansion of its support in tactical data link solutions. These initiatives are part of broader defense partnerships and strategic efforts to improve secure military communications and operational efficiency.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22, a secure digital radio system, continues to evolve as a critical component of NATO’s tactical communication infrastructure. Designed to replace the older Link 11 system, Link 22 offers enhanced interoperability and secure communication capabilities across air, surface, subsurface, and ground-based platforms. Its ability to provide beyond-line-of-sight communications in HF and UHF bands is a significant advancement, allowing for real-time data exchange and improved situational awareness.

Source: Military Embedded Systems, The Defense Post

Integration of New Technologies

Recent developments have seen the integration of Link 22 into advanced naval surveillance systems. For instance, NEXEYA France, a HENSOLDT company, has incorporated Link 22 into its LYNCEA combat management system. This integration enables the sharing and monitoring of tactical data using on-board sensors, enhancing decision-making and operational coordination. Additionally, the system’s modular architecture allows for adaptability across various ship types.

Source: Military Embedded Systems

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

Thales and Atos have continued their collaboration to develop advanced functionalities for the Link 22 system, building on their partnership since 2009. This collaboration leverages Atos’s expertise in datalink management and Thales’s experience in multi-link systems, aiming to enhance collaborative combat capabilities within NATO forces. Furthermore, the US has announced plans to assist Taiwan in upgrading its tactical data link system to Link 22, strengthening defense ties and improving Taiwan’s communication capabilities against potential threats.

Source: Naval Technology, The Defense Post

News from Defense Contractors

Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions has announced the inclusion of Link 22 support in its suite of Tactical Data Link (TDL) solutions. This addition enhances interoperability and capability for the US military and its allies, allowing for seamless integration and operation of Link 22 alongside other tactical data links such as Link 16 and Link 11. The company’s products are widely used for verification, training, and simulation of TDL integrations, providing a comprehensive solution for military communication needs.

Source: Defense Advancement

Training and Military Exercises

In the Indo-Pacific region, the French Navy has been actively testing Link 22 capabilities during deployments and exercises such as La Perouse 25 and Pacific Steller. These tests aim to validate the system’s performance and integration across French naval and aerial platforms. Additionally, SCYTALYS has secured contracts to provide Link 22 connectivity and support for Canada’s TIC3 Air Project, including comprehensive training sessions for operators and maintainers to ensure proficiency in using the new system.

Source: The Aviationist, Defense Arabia

Industry Conferences and Expert Insights

Industry experts highlight the strategic importance of Link 22 in modern military operations, emphasizing its role in enhancing command efficiency and communication security. The system’s advanced anti-jamming capabilities and automatic grouping functions are particularly noted for improving operational effectiveness in contested environments. As defense contractors and military organizations continue to invest in Link 22, its adoption is expected to grow, further solidifying its position as a cornerstone of NATO’s tactical communication strategy.

Source: The Defense Post, The Aviationist

May 05, 2025 to May 11, 2025

May 05, 2025 to May 11, 2025

Link 22 Developments: May 2025

Executive Summary: Recent advancements in the Link 22 tactical datalink system have significantly enhanced secure military communications across NATO and allied forces. The integration of new technologies and strategic partnerships are driving improvements in interoperability and anti-jamming capabilities. Defense contractors are actively involved in testing and deploying Link 22, with a focus on training and military exercises to ensure operational readiness.

Advancements in Secure Military Communications

Link 22, the secure digital radio system, is set to replace the older Link 11 system by 2025, offering enhanced communication capabilities for NATO naval forces. Operating in the HF and UHF frequency bands, Link 22 facilitates real-time communication and situational adaptability, crucial for effective mission execution. The system’s ability to provide Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) communication is a significant upgrade, allowing for seamless data exchange across various platforms, including sea, air, and land domains.

Source: Epicos

Integration of New Technologies

Thales and Atos are collaborating to enhance the Link 22 functionalities within Thales’s TopLink tactical datalink processor. This partnership, which began in 2009, aims to deliver a robust and competitive solution by leveraging Atos’s expertise in datalink management and Thales’s experience in multi-link systems. The integration of Link 22 into existing systems like TopLink ensures that naval and airborne units can effectively manage tactical messages using multiple standards, including Link 16 and Joint Range Extension.

Source: Epicos

Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives

The Link 22 project involves seven NATO member nations, including the US, UK, France, Canada, Germany, Italy, and Spain. This collaboration underscores the strategic importance of Link 22 in enhancing interoperability and communication efficiency among allied forces. The system’s development, known as the NATO Improved Link Eleven (NILE), addresses the limitations of Link 11 and complements Link 16 by providing superior anti-jamming capabilities and faster data transmission.

Source: The Aviationist

News from Defense Contractors

Leonardo DRS has successfully completed interoperability testing of its Link-22 Signal Processing Controller, ensuring compliance with Block Cycle 9 specifications. This achievement highlights Leonardo DRS’s commitment to providing world-class communication solutions that meet current and emerging mission requirements. Similarly, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions has announced Link 22 support for its tactical data link solutions, enhancing interoperability and capability for the US military and coalition partners.

Source: Defense Advancement

Source: Defense Advancement

Training, Military Exercises, and Industry Conferences

The French Navy has been actively testing Link 22 capabilities during its Indo-Pacific deployment, including exercises such as La Perouse 25 and Pacific Steller. These tests are crucial for validating the system’s performance and ensuring its readiness for operational deployment. The ongoing evaluation of Link 22 across various platforms is a testament to its strategic importance in modern military operations.

Source: The Aviationist