Principles and Features of Link 16 Systems

Link 16 is a standardized communications system used by U.S., NATO, and Coalition forces for transmitting and exchanging real time tactical data using links between allied military network participants. Also known as TADIL J., Link 16 has been a superstar for the DoD because of its dependability and ability to evolve with technological advancements. Originated in the 1970s, link 16 has evolved over time to include Small Tactical Terminals (STTs), the installation of Link 16 capable radios on platforms as small as ATVs, and the AN/PRC-161 handheld radio that pushes Link 16 capabilities further down to individual dismounted users. Link 16 is based on time-division multiple access (TDMA) communications technology, and is a secure, jam-resistant, high-speed digital data link that operates at RF and microwave frequencies from 960 to 1,215 MHz. This frequency range limits information exchange directly to line-of-sight distances, although satellite communications (SATCOM) and ad hoc protocols can pass Link 16 data over long-haul protocols such as TCP/IP using MIL-STD 3011 (JREAP) or STANAG 5602 (SIMPLE).