Data Link Solutions to Provide FireNet Link 16 Tactical Systems for U.S. Navy

The U.S. Navy has awarded a contract to Data Link Solutions, a joint venture between BAE Systems and Rockwell Collins, Inc., for the provision of small form factor (SFF) Link 16 radios utilizing BAE Systems' FireNet Link 16 tactical systems.

The FireNet system is a communication solution designed for Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) operations, aiming to meet the challenges faced by warfighters in modern environments. It addresses demands for wide data bandwidth, network diversity, and constant connectivity, offering narrow, wide-band, and tactical data link capabilities.

Boasting Crypto Modernization 1 compliance, the FireNet system claims to provide the highest transmit power in a small form factor radio for current and future fleets. It addresses size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) demands, suitable for various applications such as rotary-wing aircraft, unmanned vehicles, maritime vessels, and space platforms. The system enables line-of-sight voice, data, and network communications across different frequencies.

By merging the latest generation wideband, high-speed hardware, and software technologies, the FireNet system is intended to offer advanced communication solutions to warfighters.

The FireNet system's development will occur at BAE Systems' facilities in Wayne, New Jersey; Austin, Texas; Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Hudson, New Hampshire. The qualification and certification process is slated to commence in 2024.