SAN DIEGO, 20 Dec. 2006. Data Link Solutions in Cedar Rapids, Iowa -- a team of Rockwell Collins and BAE Systems -- won U.S. Navy order for Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVTs) for tactical aircraft.
The MIDS-LVT is a Link-16 command, control, communications, and intelligence (C3I) system with high-capacity, jam-resistant, digital communication links to help aircraft, ground stations, and surface ships exchange data and voice information in near real time on a Link-16 network among MIDS- and Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS)-equipped platforms.
Data Link Solutions won a $5.1 million order from Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, San Diego, which combines purchases for Finland and Belgium under the Foreign Military Sales Program.
In addition to performing C3I functions, MIDS also is a navigation aid that provides relative navigation position-keeping functions through precise participant location and identification (PPLI) Link-16 messages and incorporates TACAN functionality that replaces the AN/ARN-118 TACAN system.
MIDS is also interoperable with JTIDS, an earlier Link-16 system. Platforms to receive MIDS-LVTs include the European Eurofighter-2000 and Rafale aircraft, as well as U.S. aircraft carriers, cruisers, F/A-18, F-16, EA-6B aircraft, and the Airborne Laser.
Work will be performed in Wayne, N.J., and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is to be finished by May 2008.
