Link 22 Developments: September 09-15, 2024
Advancements in Secure Military Communications
Link 22, a secure digital radio system used by NATO and allied military forces, has seen significant advancements in recent times. This system, which operates in the HF and UHF bands, is designed to provide beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) communications, enhancing situational awareness and interoperability among coalition forces.
Recent developments have focused on improving the integration of Link 22 with existing tactical data links (TDLs) such as Link 16 and Link 11, as well as incorporating new technologies to enhance performance and reliability.
Integration of New Technologies
Leonardo DRS has successfully completed formal interoperability testing of its Link-22 Signal Processing Controller (SPC) within the NATO Improved Link Eleven (NILE) Link-22 Network. This testing ensures compliance with NATO standards, allowing for seamless integration with other NATO and allied systems. The SPC utilizes next-generation hardware and software architecture, including software-defined radio and modem technologies, to offer enhanced capabilities while maintaining operational reliability.
According to Larry Ezell, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Leonardo DRS Airborne and Intelligence Systems, “These systems are positioned for current and emerging mission requirements and the signal processor controllers ensure U.S. and allied forces have the best long-haul communications and situational awareness possible.”
Source: Seapower Magazine
Defense Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives
The Link 22 program continues to be a collaborative effort among NATO and allied nations. The program, initially conducted by seven nations under a memorandum of understanding (MOU), now includes Spain, which replaced the Netherlands as a NILE nation. This collaboration aims to enhance joint and coalition communications across various domains, including surface, subsurface, land, and air.
Leonardo DRS has delivered over 1,100 Link-22-capable SPCs and more than 3,000 Link-11 Data Terminal Sets to date, demonstrating the widespread adoption and trust in their technology. The company continues to invest in Link-22 technology to ensure high performance for today’s battlefield while offering growth potential for future mission sets.
Source: Epicos
Training, Military Exercises, and Industry Conferences
Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions has announced the addition of Link 22 support to its suite of TDL solutions, including the TCG LinkPRO Tactical Data Link Processing Software, TCG Ground Tactical Data Link System, and TCG Battlefield Operations Support System. This integration aims to deliver greater interoperability and capability to the U.S. military and coalition partners.
At the International Data Link Symposium (IDLS) 2022, Curtiss-Wright demonstrated the new Link 22 capabilities and interoperability, showcasing updates to current tactical data links. These demonstrations highlighted the company’s commitment to providing advanced training and simulation tools for TDL integrations.
Source: Curtiss-Wright Press Release
Expert Insights
Chris Wiltsey, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions, emphasized the importance of Link 22 support across their tactical data link product family. He stated, “We are seeing greatly increased interest in Link 22 TDL capabilities from the US DoD and our allies. For our customers, the addition of Link 22 support means that the same superior user interface they’ve come to trust can now be used to implement Link 22 integration programs.”
These advancements underscore the ongoing efforts to enhance secure military communications, ensuring that NATO and allied forces remain well-equipped to handle current and future operational challenges.
Source: Defense Advancement
Conclusion
The recent developments in Link 22 technology highlight the continuous efforts to improve secure military communications and interoperability among NATO and allied forces. The integration of new technologies, strategic defense partnerships, and advanced training and simulation tools are pivotal in ensuring that military forces are prepared for current and future mission requirements.
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