The US Navy has selected Data Link Solutions, a joint venture between BAE Systems and Collins Aerospace, to supply hundreds of Multifunctional Information Distribution System – Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS) terminals.
Under a $248-million contract, the systems will support US forces and allied militaries.
MIDS JTRS is a software-defined and jam-resistant tactical radio that supports line-of-sight voice, video, and data communications across sea, air, and ground platforms in operational environments.
It provides Link 16 connectivity, a standardized system used by NATO and coalition forces to transmit and share real-time tactical data among allied military networks.
The system allows forces to share relative position and targeting information, improving situational awareness and enabling faster decision-making in contested scenarios.
Under the contract, Data Link Solutions will deliver MIDS JTRS terminals for more than 45 US and allied platform types, including unmanned aerial vehicles and armored command-and-control ground vehicles.
The system is also being fielded on fighter aircraft, including the F-15, F-16, F/A-18, and F-22.
“This contract demonstrates the ongoing need to equip our warfighters with a high-performing, secure command and control solution and our commitment to deliver at the speed of need,” said Brian Shadiack, director of Data Link Solutions.
Latest Contracts
The recent contract follows a December 2024 award in which the US Navy granted Data Link Solutions up to $1 billion for MIDS JTRS, covering production, retrofits, development, and sustainment of the terminals.
Earlier in 2024, the company also secured a separate US Navy contract to supply FireNet small form-factor radios.
The radios provide real-time tactical data sharing, are part of BAE’s Link 16 systems, and use Time Division Multiple Access to support simultaneous exchanges.
FireNet delivers high transmitting power in a compact package.
It is designed to meet size and cost requirements for helicopters, ships, drones, and space platforms.
