Data Link Solutions, a joint venture between BAE Systems and Rockwell Collins, secured a contract with the U.S. Navy to supply compact Link 16 radios. These will be delivered using BAE Systems’ FireNet Link 16 tactical systems.
FireNet provides a secure, open system communication solution that supports a unified tactical network for Joint All Domain Command and Control operations, according to the company.
“We have developed a first-of-its kind small form factor system that enables full Link 16 connectivity,” said Amber Dolan, director of Adaptive Communications and Sensing at BAE Systems. “FireNet is scalable and modular to give our service men and women a battlefield advantage in network-centric environments across domains. Using the government’s program of record waveform, we can reduce lifecycle costs, quickly deliver updated capabilities, and enhance mission survivability across manned and unmanned fleets.”
Warfighters operate in network-centric, information-intensive environments that require wide data bandwidth, network diversity and constant connectivity. Large volumes of reliable data must be exchanged in real-time to maintain situational awareness. The FireNet system addresses these needs, the company said.
The FireNet system is Crypto Modernization 1 compliant and offers the highest transmit power available in a SFF radio for current and future fleets. It addresses size, weight, power and cost demands and its applications can extend across rotary-wing aircraft, unmanned vehicles, maritime vessels and space platforms.
The system also allows for additional line-of-sight voice, data and network communications from very high frequency to S-Band.
Work on the FireNet system will take place at BAE Systems’ Wayne, New Jersey; Austin, Texas; Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Hudson, New Hampshire sites.