US Navy Tasks Data Link Solutions to Deliver Small Link 16 Radios

BAE Systems has announced that Data Link Solutions, a joint venture with RTX subsidiary Collins Aerospace, secured a U.S. Navy contract to provide small Link 16 radios.

DLS will fulfill the contract by delivering FireNet Link 16 tactical systems, BAE said Wednesday.

FireNet, BAE explained, is a secure and open communications solution with a unified tactical network to facilitate Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control operations.

The company added that the product supports situational awareness by allowing large volumes of information to be transmitted in real time through narrowband, wideband and tactical data link connectivity.

Amber Dolan, BAE’s director of adaptive communications and sensing, said FireNet’s scalable and modular design can strengthen soldiers’ advantage in network-centric environments.

FireNet use cases include expanded line-of-sight voice and data communications on rotary-wing aircraft, maritime vessels and unmanned vehicles.

Work is expected to take place at various company facilities throughout the United States, with qualification and certification efforts slated for sometime in 2024.