Link 16 tactical data link communication via space: ‘A ground-breaking development’
Date: Dec. 6, 2024 | Outlet: FFI Norwegian Foreign Defense Research Establishment | By: FFI Staff Report
‘This is a game-changing capability, and we’re just getting started!’ says Major Tyler Levy at FFI, leader of a test where Norwegian F-35s and P-8s communicated over a Link 16 network via satellites in space.
‘The unique thing about this test is not just that we have communicated using Link 16 via United States Space Development Agency (SDA) satellites in orbit, but we have done so with operational Norwegian equipment and personnel in combination with operational American equipment and personnel,’ says Stian Betten, research manager for combat aircraft activities at FFI’s Defense Systems division.
A breakthrough
Link 16 is a secure communications network used by NATO and selected partners. There is, however, a disadvantage of a radio-based system such as Link 16, namely that it requires a clear line of sight.
‘During the test, we showed that we could communicate with systems in orbit via Link 16. We were also able to establish connections to airborne Norwegian F-35s and P-8s. This is a breakthrough and something that increases the capability of the system. Not only can we communicate without direct line of sight, but we’ve extended the network coverage and enabled communication over extreme distances,’ says Betten.
High North applications
The Link 16 test was performed in close cooperation with the SDA, which develops the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) satellite constellation.
‘SDA needed an international partner, so we here at FFI lined up together with a number of other units in the Norwegian Armed Forces, including NOBLE (Norwegian Battle Lab Experiment), which is linked to the Norwegian Armed Forces’ Joint Headquarters (FOH),’ says Betten.
The fact that testing takes place in Norway is no coincidence. The satellites in the constellation operate in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with a high inclination angle, which means that they’re potentially very useful in the High North.
‘Real-time communication between units is essential for maintaining situational awareness,’ says Betten. ‘When the network is fully developed, it could increase the lethality and survivability of allied units.’
Expanded trial
The test in Norway was SDA’s expanded trial of the PWSA’s Link 16 capability.
Many allied systems are also equipped with Link 16 radios, and Betten confirms that it will be possible to establish a link with them – via space. This will open up brand new operational opportunities, he concludes.
This is Link 16
Link 16 is an encrypted, secure, tactical data link network. The system is used by NATO and approved partners. Via the system, military aircraft, ships, and land forces can share their tactical picture in near real-time. The system can be used for messages, pictures, data and voice. The system requires a clear line of sight but can be used over longer distances using various relays, such as SDA’s satellite network.