News
U.S. Navy Moves Ahead with Data Link Solutions’ Shipboard Network Upgrade Systems
May 2014
Wayne, New Jersey — Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint venture between Collins Aerospace and BAE Systems, has received a $62 million contract to upgrade the major data communications systems on U.S. Navy surface ships, known as the Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) on Ship Modernization (MOS Mod) program. The company will perform ship modernization of the MIDS Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS) and MIDS-Low Volume Terminal (MIDS-LVT) to enable a more effective exchange of text and imagery data between naval ships, military aircraft and ground forces.
"As sole developer of the MOS systems deployed to U.S. Government and Allied Forces platforms, DLS is well positioned to deliver the unique network-centric warfare capabilities and combined expertise of both Collins Aerospace and BAE Systems to strengthen shipboard interface protocols," said Joe Senftle, vice president and general manager of Communications and Control Solutions at BAE Systems.
MOS Mod is a top priority program for the U.S. Navy. Managed by the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, MOS Mod seeks to alleviate obsolescence and supportability issues of the MIDS shipboard system, allowing military aircraft and ground forces to share the tactical picture in near-real time.
"DLS's proven track record of delivering MOS terminals for the past 12 years will enable complex Link 16 project goals involving MOS technology upgrades," said Mike Jones, vice president and general manager of Communication and Navigation Products at Collins Aerospace.
Work for the initial three-year contract will be performed at DLS facilities in Wayne, New Jersey, and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Competitively procured by DLS, this indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity development and production contract includes options that would extend the company’s work through 2022.
About Data Link Solutions
DLS was established in 1996 by two of the world leaders in military communications, Collins Aerospace and BAE Systems, to pursue next-generation Link 16 and advanced data link applications. DLS is a leading supplier of Link 16 terminals and software, as well as logistics and support services for air, land, and sea-based platforms. The company has a heritage of more than 30 years of Link 16 design and production experience, with more than 10,000 Link 16 systems delivered worldwide to more than 45 nations.
