FIGHTER TACTICAL DATA LINK
Abstract
Tactical Data Links (TDL) as a subset of the broader Airborne Network are used in a combat environment to exchange information such as messages, data, radar tracks, target information, platform status, imagery, and command assignments. TDLs provide interoperability, local and global connectivity, and situational awareness to the user when operating under rapidly changing operational conditions. TDLs provide a jam-resistant; secure digital data transfer network capability with a new and standardized waveforms and data formats allowing Line of Sight (LOS) and Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) intra- and inter-flight communications. TDLs are used by all Service theater Command and Control (C2) elements, weapons platforms, and sensors. TDLs include, but are not limited to: Link 16, Link 11, Situational Awareness Data Link (SADL), Variable Message Format (VMF), Integrated Broadcast Service (IBS), Intra-Flight Data Link (IFDL), Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT), and Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL). The Joint Requirements Oversight Council (JROC) recently approved the MADL waveform for all low observable platforms, to include the F-22, B-2, and F-35 and the MADL Overarching Integrated Product Team (OIPT) approved enterprise level management and support for MADL Development. This effort provides critical capability and enhancements to the Airborne Network by creating common development, integration and interoperability among all Air Force fighter platforms to include but not limited to A-10, F-15A-E, F-16 Blocks 30/40/50, F-22A, and F-35 aircraft. Keeps all fighter platforms and datalinked weapons current, interoperable in the network, and enables Global Strike (GS), Global Persistent Attack (GPA), Offensive and Defensive Counterair (OCA and DCA) and Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) missions. Also expands LOS and BLOS data link capabilities. TDLs increase mission effectiveness, provide situational awareness, and provide positive identification of aircraft in the network, correlate on- and off-board sensor data sharing, target, and threat information, and provide the datalink to accomplish time critical targeting and other mission update functions. TDL efforts include incorporating changes and additions to TDL message standards (e.g. MIL-STD-6016D) and applicable Interface Change Proposals (ICPs); future development of MADL waveform specification, message standards (MIL-STD-6019) and modeling and simulation; MADL enterprise level planning and testing; assisting with AF and Joint interoperability certification testing; future development, integration, and verification of Operational Flight Program (OFP) upgrades due to TDL integration; support of data gathering processes; studying and incorporating data link technologies to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of the Global Strike and Global Persistent Attack CONOPS; and incorporating Interoperable Systems Management and Requirements Transformation (iSMART), a process which enables network centric interoperability assessments to be made more quickly and effectively. Activities also include studies and analysis to support both current program planning and execution and future program planning. Fighter Tactical Data Link program is in Budget Activity 7, Operational System Development, since it supports integration of tactical data links into operational systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- R2 Budgetary Justification
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2011
- Source ID
- 0207445F_7_3600_PB_2011
- Change Summary Explanation
- The FY 2010 President's Budget submittal did not reflect FY 2011 through FY 2015 funding. Therefore, explanation of changes between the two budget positions cannot be made in a relevant manner
- Service Agency Name
- Air Force
Entities
Organizations
- United States Air Force
Related Documents
- Child Project: Fighter Tactical Data Link
- Child Accomplishment: MAJOR THRUST: Develop and integrate MADL onto the F-22 to provide a secure, jam resistant, low-observable waveform for operation in the anti-access environment.
- Child Accomplishment: MAJOR THRUST: Ensure a well-documented, interoperable data link capability for Low Observable platforms in the anti access region.
- Child Accomplishment: MAJOR THRUST: F-15 Suite 6 Upgrades.
- Child Accomplishment: MAJOR THRUST: Development and integration of A-10 SADL/Enhanced Precision Location Reporting System (EPLRS) and IDM capabilities.
- Child Accomplishment: MAJOR THRUST: Fighter Tactical Data Link system engineering analysis, development, testing, integration, and technical support of common Fighter data link technology and capabilities.
- Child Cost Item: c4290ea5682314f76d858189eb8b8bd0
- Child Cost Item: 3761fcfad63bfa3f95fb95a74778f0a6
- Child Cost Item: 983e5fd8c352a0c4743a240053158979
- Child Cost Item: cc3b31eff893cbf7301b9016bedd695b
- Child Cost Item: e20c9a4eca5184d86de4d81f11f9cd1b
- Child Cost Item: 6e1e7d206d60276031e91a005eae2343