The US Department of Defense is actively deploying MIDS JTRS technology on various aircraft. Credit: © BAE Systems.

The US Navy has finalised an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract with Data Link Solutions (DLS) for the Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS). 

DLS is a collaborative enterprise between BAE Systems and Collins Aerospace.  

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With a potential value of $1bn, the contract encompasses the ongoing production, retrofitting, development, and maintenance of MIDS JTRS. 

This system maintains situational awareness and facilitates secure Link 16 network connections, offering resistant communication capabilities for voice, video, and data across naval, ground, and aerial units.  

MIDS JTRS, a software-defined radio with four channels, is engineered to support the Link 16 waveform and three additional communication protocols.  

Link 16 is a standard for the exchange of real-time tactical information among NATO members, the US, and allied forces.  

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It offers a scalable network solution adaptable to specific mission requirements.  

Additionally, it incorporates the tactical targeting networking technology that is designed to deliver high-speed communication with low latency, ensuring connectivity in contested spaces. 

The US Department of Defense is actively deploying MIDS JTRS technology on various aircraft, including the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, and F-22 fighter jets, as well as on naval vessels and command and control elements.  

Data Link Solutions director Amber Dolan said: “MIDS JTRS brings different generations of platforms onto a common communications network. It provides more stable and secure gateways in the most contested scenarios. 

“This award enables Data Link Solutions to modernise thousands of MIDS JTRS terminals and provide new capabilities that support a variety of missions for the US Navy and coalition forces.” 

Manufacturing and integration of the MIDS JTRS will be conducted in Wayne, New Jersey, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, US.  

This contract represents a consolidation of purchases for the US Navy, Air Force, Army, and the MIDS Program Office, in addition to the procurement for NATO countries under the Foreign Military Sales programme.  

The initial task order under the IDIQ contract, valued at $116m, has been issued for the supply of terminals and spare parts, with expectations for subsequent production orders to follow. 

Data Link Solutions has supplied more than 9,000 systems globally to more than 50 countries.