Tactical Data Links - MIDS/JTIDS Link 16, and Variable Message Format - VMF
Key words and phrases: tactical data links, MIDS, JTIDS, Link 16, variable message format, VMF, time division multiple access, satellite, STDL
Multi-functional Information Distribution System - MIDS
Joint Tactical Information Distribution System - JTIDS
MIDS/JTIDS is a high capacity, ECM-resistant communications link designed for all services (air, surface and land) and all platform types, i.e. for C2 and non-C2 units. The requirement for high capacity constrained the link to a UHF solution, thereby limiting the range of the system to direct LOS, but uses relay techniques designed into the system to achieve BLOS performance.
The term MIDS was used to define NATO’s requirement for an ECM resistant information distribution system, that was already defined by the US as JTIDS.
MIDS/JTIDS supports three message standards: Link 16, IJMS and Variable Message Format (VMF).
MIDS/JTIDS uses a Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) architecture. An enhancement using a Distributed TDMA architecture was also under development to provide a further increase in capacity but development was cancelled in the mid-1980s. Activities are being undertaken to examine other higher bandwidth options whilst retaining the basic MIDS/JTIDS waveform.
Link 16/TADIL J
Link 16 (also known as TADIL J in the US) has been designed to optimise the use of the MIDS/JTIDS architecture. Link 16 has been developed to meet the information exchange requirements of all tactical units, supporting the exchange of surveillance data, EW data, mission tasking, weapons assignments and control data.The Link 16 message standard uses J-series messages and completely meets the requirements for C2 functionality and aircraft control. In addition Link 16 has been selected by the US and NATO as the main tactical data link for Theatre Missile Defence.
Numerous platforms have been or will be equipped with Link 16 (Airborne Surveillance and Intelligence Systems, C2 Systems, Fighter and Bomber Aircraft, SAM Systems, Ships, etc). The UK has implemented Link 16 in its E-3D AWACS & Tornado F3 fleet. Furthermore implementation is underway for RN ships and aircraft and other RAF C2 platforms and aircraft.
Message standards are defined in STANAG 5516 while standard operating procedures are laid down in ADatP 16.
Variable Message Format - VMF
VMF is another "Link 16 family protocol" that uses Link 16 data elements to create variable length messages suitable for near real time data exchange in a bandwidth constrained combat environment. Earlier US Army VMF protocols contained ATDL-1 message elements. The final and Joint Service version is still under development. VMF is intended to be filling the gap between what Link 16 & some other TDLs do and Message Text Formats.
Satellite Tactical Data Link - STDL: Link 16 via Satellite
The Royal Navy investigated the use of the Link 16 message standard on a satellite bearer to provide BLOS communications using Link 16. Feasibility studies were undertaken in 1991/2. The Satellite Tactical Data Link (STDL) is now part of the RN Ship System requirement and is to be implemented at the same time as MIDS/JTIDS Link 16.
STDL will be primarily used for the exchange of Surveillance and Mission Management Data.
The organisation of access to the satellite bearer will be TDMA on a single channel, i.e. the same basis as JTIDS. STDL can be operated in a broadcast mode or network mode.
Data Link descriptions: Tactical Data Links | Link 16 | Link 11 | Link 22 | IJMS | Link 1 | Link 14 | Link 4 | Other protocols | CDL, TCDL & HIDL | Satellite Link 16 | Variable Message Format - VMF
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