Multi-agency certification across JITC, NMSC, FAA, and NSA. Unified tracking for Link 16, Link 22, MIDS, and space-based TDL programs.
Program delays worth billions
Tactical data links form the connective tissue of modern joint operations. Link 16, Link 22, and emerging waveforms enable the real-time information sharing that joint and coalition forces depend upon.
Yet certification bottlenecks across multiple government agencies have become the primary schedule driver for major programs, delaying fielding by years.
The Multifunctional Information Distribution System program illustrates how certification bottlenecks affect major defense acquisition.
“Schedule status assessed as Yellow due to certification bottlenecks—not technical challenges.”
The Space Development Agency conducted the first successful space-to-ground Link 16 transmission in November 2023—demonstrating that tactical data links can extend to satellite constellation nodes.
MIDS JTRS TTNT variants require 22-channel, multiple frequency band operation to achieve design performance. However, current channel allocation for most CONUS-based integration and test events provides fewer than five channels.
“The gap between test environment spectrum access and operational requirements creates certification risk.”
Link 11 sunset scheduled for 2025 is driving accelerated transition to Link 22 across NATO and allied forces. The seven-nation NATO Improved Link Eleven program established Link 22 as the replacement waveform.
HF-EPM mode capability remains pending due to US regulations on TRANSEC availability, limiting the full Link 22 capability set for some partner nations.
When tactical data link systems exhibit anomalous behavior, JPR investigation processes determine root cause and corrective actions—coordinating across multiple contractors, agencies, and potentially allied nations.
Tactical data link programs cannot afford certification bottlenecks that delay capability to warfighters.
By consolidating multi-agency coordination, spectrum management, multinational compliance, and problem report tracking within integrated workflows, organizations can identify and address certification risks before they become program delays.
Tactical data link programs cannot afford delays that keep capability from warfighters. Thalorin provides the unified certification tracking that TDL programs require.