mids-on-ship

The US Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command has awarded a contract to Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint-venture between BAE Systems and Rockwell Collins, to provide multifunctional information distribution system (MIDS)-on-ship (MOS) systems.

Under the $32m, firm-fixed-price contract, the company will deliver up to 12 MOS Lot Four production units for shipboard applications to the US Navy and other international naval forces.

DLS senior director Jack Stevens said: "The DLS MOS system elevates mission effectiveness by providing time-critical targeting information and heightened situational awareness for engaged platforms.

"The DLS MOS system elevates mission effectiveness by providing time-critical targeting information and heightened situational awareness for engaged platforms."

"As a premier manufacturer of shipboard Link 16 and provider of MIDS-LVT variants, DLS is committed to providing our warfighters with assured, protected access to the vital information they need to efficiently complete their missions anywhere in the world."

Work on the contract will be carried out at DLS facilities in Wayne, New Jersey, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, US, with completion expected by December 2017.

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The systems provide time-critical targeting and Blue Force Tracking to command-and-control platforms.

Blue Force Tracking is a system of software and computers that links satellites, sensors, communications devices, vehicles, aircraft, and weapons in a digital network.

Designed to provide full interoperability with all Link 16 systems, the MOS systems offer secure, high-capacity, and jam-resistant digital Link 16 data and voice communications capabilities.

With these capabilities, Link 16 users gain increased situational awareness as each participant can electronically ‘see’ the battle space, including assigned targets or threats.

Additionally, users can exchange digital data over a common communication link that is continuously and automatically updated in real-time.

The MOS will enable the navy users to enhance the ability of surface warships to exchange text and imagery data with aircraft and ground forces.

Image: The multifunctional information distribution system on ship. Photo: courtesy of Data Link Solutions.