The US Navy has awarded L3Harris Technologies an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract to deliver resilient communication technology for US and coalition forces.
Under the $999m contract, L3Harris will supply its multifunctional information distribution system joint tactical radio system terminals (MIDS JTRS) over the next five years.
The MIDS JTRS is a US Navy-funded programme developed as a multi-channel, software-defined version of the MIDS-Low Volume Terminal.
MIDS is the globally most widely deployed family of Link 16 terminals, supporting a range of platforms, including airborne, maritime, ground mobile, and fixed-station systems.
It features a multi-band, multi-mode, network-capable radio system that is software-definable, meeting both current and future needs for the US Department of Defense joint interoperability.
L3Harris is one of two providers of the MIDS JTRS solution. It also offers a range of resilient communication devices and systems.
The MIDS JTRS features a four-channel software-programmable radio with a tactical air navigation system (TACAN) functionality and three additional channels for future growth.
Link 16 is a fully interoperable multi-domain network that delivers secure communications, command and control, situational awareness, and targeting information to coalition forces worldwide.
In January 2023, L3Harris completed the acquisition of the Link 16 Tactical Data Links product line.
The MIDS JTRS is currently deployed on platforms such as the F/A-18E/F, EC-130 E/H, E-8C, and RC-135 aircraft.
L3Harris chair and CEO Christopher Kubasik said: “Our resilient technology ensures all users in these coalitions know where friendly forces are and what they are doing to inform a common operating picture and achieve mission success.”
This contract extends L3Harris's 24-year history of supporting the delivery of standard communication interoperability solutions to all US armed services and 57 allied nations.
Earlier this month, the company achieved testing milestones in developing its next-generation advanced electronic warfare (ADVEW) system for the US Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet.
