Defence

Thales Land and Joint Systems has revealed plans for a low-cost Link 16-like airborne networking terminal that would allow non-NATO air forces to participate in future coalition operations.

Designated LX-16, the datalink would use standard J-series message formats, but an alternate waveform to ensure the security of NATO Link 16 networks. An interface processor, potentially to be carried by a large command and control aircraft, would support networking between the standards during combined operations.

Patrick Caine, vice-president aero and naval activities, says the link is based on Thales's proprietary "nextwave" tactical communications system and would operate on UHF bands, versus the L-band Link 16 standard.

The LX-16 concept has already been discussed with a number of non-NATO air forces and non-western aircraft manufacturers. "Our export customers among non-NATO air forces often tell us their dream is to get a Link 16 capability," he says.

"Those aircraft manufacturers which are quite successful on the export market, and typically the non-NATO market, see that capability as a good plus for them to be able to offer," he adds.

Thales is also working on a new standalone low-volume Link 16 terminal which will allow legacy types, particularly tanker and transport aircraft, to participate in NATO coalition operations. "If you put this capability in a tanker it is much easier to make the meeting point, especially at night and in bad weather conditions," Caine says.