Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS)
Abstract
The Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) Program is a multinational (United States (U.S.), France, Germany, Italy, Spain) cooperative development program with Joint Service participation (Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force). DoD established the program to design, develop and deliver low volume, lightweight tactical information system terminals for U.S. and Allied fighter aircraft, bombers, helicopters, ships, and ground sites. The MIDS Program consists of the MIDS Low Volume Terminal (MIDS-LVT) and the MIDS Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS) terminal. MIDS-LVT provides interoperability with international users significantly increasing force effectiveness and minimizing hostile actions and friend-on-friend engagements. The MIDS-LVT terminal design is smaller, lighter, highly reliable, interoperable with Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS) Class 2 terminal, compatible with all the participants' designated platforms, affordable, and re-configurable to individual user needs and budgets. Three principal configurations of the MIDS-LVT terminal are in production and use an open system, modular architecture. MIDS-LVT Variant (1) includes voice, Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN) and variable power transmission with maximum power of 200 watts and provides a Link 16 capability to U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force (USAF) platforms. MIDS-LVT Variant (2) is a ground variant and is a functional replacement for the JTIDS Class 2M terminal. MIDS-LVT Variant (3), also referred to as MIDS Fighter Data Link, is a reduced function terminal for the USAF (no voice, no TACAN, and a maximum power of 40 watts).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA614844