Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint venture of Rockwell Collins and BAE Systems, has been selected to provide four types of Multi-functional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT) to U.S. and coalition forces. A contract, valued at $28.9 million, was awarded by the U.S. Navy’s Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command.
This award is part of a long-term program designed to meet the requirements of U.S. and allied forces for real-time situational awareness among airborne, shipboard and ground forces. The terminals will be installed on U.S. and international platforms that include the F/A-18, F-16, Typhoon, Command and Control and other aircraft. Additionally, the MIDS-LVT is used for shipboard applications as part of the MIDS-On-Ship for both high- and low-power requirements. Future LVT sustainment for the MIDS terminals may include enhanced throughput, frequency remapping and crypto replacement.
The MIDS-LVT-2/11 is specifically designed for U.S. Army Patriot Information Coordination Central and Battery Command Posts, Forward Area Air Defense Command and Control Units and surface launched missiles, along with U.S. Air Force Air Operations Centers and Joint Interface Control Officer Support Systems. DLS was selected for 50% of the LVT2/11 terminals competitively awarded by the U.S. Government.
“This award marks the tenth year of production for the MIDS family of products. We are proud to be able to play a role in providing the U.S. and our partners for peace with the family of MIDS products and ancillary equipment,” said DLS Director Bob Gabel. “Since the inception of the product, DLS has been the premier manufacturer, integrator and service support provider of all MIDS-LVT variants. DLS is committed to providing the warfighter assured, protected access to the time-critical information they need to efficiently complete their missions anywhere in the world.”
The MIDS-LVT terminals will be used on U.S. platforms and, through Foreign Military Sales, in Japan, Korea, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Canada, Poland, Switzerland, and Finland. MIDS LVT terminals provide a secure, high-capacity, jam-resistant digital data and voice communications capability.
Work will be performed in Wayne, N.J., and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is expected to be completed by December 2010. The MIDS program is managed by the U.S. Navy MIDS Program Office in San Diego, Calif.
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MIDS-LVT was developed by a multinational consortium to provide Link 16 capability at a lower weight, volume and cost. Link 16 provides real-time data communications, situational awareness and navigation, and in some cases, digital voice, all in a jam-resistant, crypto-secured package. DLS is the only company today that provides all LVT configurations within a complete Link 16 systems portfolio.
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