Data Link Solutions awarded $28 million MIDS-LVT contract

Data Link Solutions has received a $28 million order for Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT) from the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR), San Diego.

MIDS-LVT provides secure, high-capacity, jam-resistant digital data and voice communications capability for Navy, Air Force and Army platforms. This order is for LVT airborne terminals to be used on U.S. platforms and for the governments of Belgium, Japan and Poland via Foreign Military Sales.

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.

This award is part of a long-term program designed to meet the requirements of U.S. and allied forces for communications among airborne, shipboard, and ground forces. The terminals will be installed on the U.S. Navy F/A-18 and EA-6B, U.S. Air Force F-16, B-1, B-2 and B-52, and on shipboard and foreign platforms.

Work will be performed in Wayne, N.J., and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is expected to be completed by May 2009. The MIDS program is managed by the U.S. Navy MIDS Program Office in San Diego.