Data Link Solutions Secures U.S. Navy Contract for Next-Generation Tactical Radio Production

Data Link Solutions, the long-standing joint venture between BAE Systems and Collins Aerospace, has been awarded a 248 million dollar U.S. Navy production contract to supply hundreds of Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System terminals. The award reinforces the Navy’s continued investment in resilient, interoperable communications infrastructure that supports U.S. and allied operations across multiple domains.

Tactical Connectivity Designed for Modern Operational Demands

MIDS JTRS provides Link 16 connectivity with jam-resistant, line-of-sight voice, video, and data exchange for air, land, and maritime platforms. The system is engineered to identify the most secure and efficient communication paths, enabling rapid sharing of positional and targeting information. For aerospace operators, this capability remains central to maintaining situational awareness and synchronized decision making in contested environments.

Brian Shadiack, director of Data Link Solutions, noted that the contract reflects both the operational demand for secure command and control systems and the organization’s increased production capacity. The company will deliver terminals for more than 45 U.S. and international platform types, including unmanned aerial vehicles and armored ground command and control vehicles.

Software-Defined Architecture Supports Multi-Protocol Operations

MIDS JTRS is a four channel, software-defined radio capable of running the Link 16 waveform alongside up to three additional communication protocols. Link 16 remains a foundational tactical data link for NATO, the United States, and partner nations, offering a scalable architecture that can be tailored to mission requirements.

The system also incorporates Tactical Targeting Networking Technology, which provides a low latency, high throughput waveform designed to maintain connectivity in contested electromagnetic environments. The Department of War is fielding MIDS JTRS across a range of platforms, including the F 15, F 16, F A 18, and F 22 aircraft, as well as maritime vessels and ground based command and control systems.

Longstanding Supplier of Link 16 Capabilities

Data Link Solutions has delivered more than 9,000 Link 16 systems to over 50 nations during its 25 year history. The organization provides terminals, software, logistics, and support services for air, land, and sea platforms, positioning it as a key contributor to global tactical data link modernization.

Production Footprint Across Two U.S. Locations

Work under the new contract will be performed in Wayne, New Jersey, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, supporting continued domestic manufacturing of critical communications hardware for joint and coalition forces.