IBM Global Business Services Government/Defense

Government

Tactical data links solution

for defense from IBM
Stronger defense through smarter use of data links
2 Tactical data links solution for defense from IBM

Contents Highlights
• Allows simpler and faster integration with other systems
2 Highlights
• Increases information sharing among different system and
3 Smarter defense: Analytics for better battle-space unit types
awareness • Improves tactical and situational awareness while helping to
better secure critical data
3 Tactical data links technology background
• Helps derive more intelligence from data links through
6 Link 22: The combined experience advanced analytics
• Enhances interoperability between operational partners
8 IBM Data Link Processing System

9 Tactical data links solutions and services from IBM Tactical communications are crucial to command and control.
In addition to sharing relevant data with forces to better
10 Technology outlook: Reduced size and enhanced perform missions, participants must interoperate across service
integration
and national boundaries in joint and coalition environments.
11 Why IBM The IBM® Data Link Processing System allows friendly units,
such as ships, submarines, aircraft and land-based units, to
11 For more information
communicate more safely.
 IBM Global Business Services 3

Smarter defense: Analytics for better information with data sources — such as unstructured data and
battle-space awareness non-data link information — to enrich the tactical picture and
The world is changing, enabling organizations to make faster, to provide new insights. You can also use assured sharing
better-informed decisions. Technology and improved solutions for data link information among coalition partners to
processing capabilities have crossed a new threshold in their accommodate national policies. These solutions help you share
ability to manage pervasive information, to analyze it in search critical information while better protecting information that
of insight, to predict risks and opportunities and to drive faster must be kept confidential.
decisions. Integrated solutions help manage, protect, process
and analyze unprecedented volumes of structured and Tactical data links technology
unstructured data. background
In any military operation, especially during combat conditions,
Now, the use of tactical data and other information helps the rapid exchange of accurate tactical information by allied
develop a new type of military intelligence. With this new forces can be critical to the outcome. As the role of communica-
intelligence, defense organizations can make faster, better- tions technology becomes more complex, the importance of
informed decisions to drive improved mission performance. linking disparate systems grows ever greater. The North Atlantic
However, to use this tactical data, commanders require Treaty Organization (NATO) has developed tactical data link
analytical capabilities to perceive, predict and perform faster (TDL) standards that are being implemented by all major
with better effects. NATO members and various other nations.

IBM can help you use tactical data in new ways with analytics. TDLs are standardized radio communications that are used by
With IBM, you can analyze the history of data links and militaries and other organizations for maintaining a common
discover trends and patterns to derive intelligence that might situational picture among participants in an operational area.
identify suspicious behavior or provide earlier warning of TDL communications systems are driven by a highly
enemy actions. You can also combine and analyze data link formatted message structure and bandwidth constraints.
4 Tactical data links solution for defense from IBM

The physical size and cost of data link systems can often limit Figure 1 shows a situational image on the DCS, developed by
the number of enabled links in operations. These limitations IBM, as the tool might be used by a country’s naval forces.
can also dampen the effectiveness of non-data link participants
who can’t share a common operational picture. The TDL
solution for defense from IBM helps alleviate these challenges.
But not all new links are compatible with existing links. New
links often require some form of interface to enable the flow
of communications. For the armed forces of NATO member
countries and allied nations, the various benefits that can
accompany the use of TDLs are:

• Greater access to real-time and real-time-critical

information
• Improved speed of decision making
• Reduced risk of friendly fire incidents

The challenges of the future are compounded by the need for

new or upcoming TDL standards, such as Joint Range
Extension Application Protocol (JREAP), VMF or Link 22.
Along with the TDL for defense solution, IBM offers a stand-
alone variant that uses the Display and Control System (DCS)
from IBM to help enhance the operational effectiveness of
Figure 1: Objects received from remote sensors through TDLs shown on
existing systems or non-combat management systems (CMS). the DCS.
 IBM Global Business Services 5

Link 11 Link 16 Link 22

Tactical data information link TADIL A/B TADIL J

(TADIL) designation

Radio range • HF: 300 nautical miles (NM) • No HF • HF 1000 NM

High frequency (HF) • UHF: 25 NM between ships • UHF: Line-of-sight (LOS) • UHF: Line-of-sight
Ultra-high frequency (UHF) 150+ NM ship-aircraft 150+ NM ship-aircraft 150+ NM ship-aircraft

Standardized NATO Agreement STANAG 5511 STANAG 5516 STANAG 5522

(STANAG)

US Military Standard (MIL-STD) MIL-STD-6011 MIL-STD-6016C

Allied Data Publication (ADatP) for ADatP-33 ADatP-33 ADatP-33

TDL standard operating procedure

Variations None Satellite TADIL J (S-TADIL J None

or STJ), Joint Range Extension
Application Protocol (JREAP),
Satellite tactical datal link (STDL)

Table 1: Basic details of Link 11, Link 16 and Link 22.

Data link messages are characterized by their standard message slow link that normally operates on a polling system with a net
and transmission formats. These formats are designed to control station (NCS) that polls each participant for data. Link
promote interoperability in a limited bandwidth environment. 11 can also be operated in broadcast modes that allow one
TDLs are limited to a specific area of operation and are used participant to make a single data transmission or a series of
for the command and control of forces. Although various TDL single transmissions. Even though Link 11 is security rich, it is
standards exist, the two US and NATO data link systems in not resistant to electronic countermeasures (ECMs).
general use Link 11 and Link 16, as shown in Table 1,
compared to the new Link 22. Link 16
Link 16 is an improved data link standard that is used to
Link 11 exchange near real-time information. As a communication,
Link 11 provides a computer-to-computer exchange of digital navigation and identification system, Link 16 supports the
tactical information among ships, aircraft and shore information exchange between tactical command, control,
installations. Systems that use Link 11 data communications communications, computers and intelligence (C4I) systems.
can operate with HF or UHF radios and can use satellite Link 16 is used in sea, airborne and ground-based units. In
communication as an alternative to provide more range. Based addition to enabling units to exchange their tactical picture,
on technology developed in the 1960s, Link 11 is a relatively Link 16 supports the exchange of text messages and image
data. It also provides two channels of digital voice.
6 Tactical data links solution for defense from IBM

The radio transmission and reception component of Link 16 Link 22: The combined experience
can be the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System Link 22 is the newest NATO standard for tactical information
(JTIDS) or its successors, the Multifunctional Information exchange between military units. The development of Link 22
Distribution System -Low Volume Terminal (MIDS-LVT) started in 1992 as the NATO Improved Link Eleven (NILE)
and Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint project. The goals of this project were to replace the aging
Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS). These high-capacity, Link 11 standard, complement Link 16, improve allied
UHF, line-of-sight (LOS), frequency-hopping data interoperability and enhance mission performance. The Link
communications terminals provide security-rich, jam-resistant 22 standard was developed to overcome weak points of earlier
voice and digital data exchange. JTIDS and MIDS terminals data links. Such weak points include Link 11’s lack of
operate on the principle of time division multiple access robustness, susceptibility to interference, and low data rate.
(TDMA), where time slots are allocated among all Link16 Link 16’s weaknesses include a short range and the use of civil
network participants for the transmission and reception of aviation frequencies. The NATO member nations that
data. TDMA eliminates the requirement for a net control participated in the development of Link 22 are Canada,
station (NCS) by providing a communications network France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom and the US.
architecture without nodes. Today, the Link 22 standard is operational.

Operating in UHF frequencies, Link 16 is limited to the Link 22 transmits data in fixed-format messages that are
exchange of information between users within LOS of each compatible with Link 16 formats. Like Link 16,
other. However, new technologies are providing the means to communication channels are shared by using TDMA
pass Link 16 data over various protocols such as TCP/IP and protocols. The specification for Link 22 is the Standardized
UHF satellite communications (SATCOM). Link 16 was NATO Agreement (STANAG) 5522. The structure of the
intended to replace or augment many existing TDLs as the Link 22 network layer allows for the transmission of any kind
joint standard for data link information exchange, but its use is and length of data with automated routing and relaying
limited by the cost of implementation and support. mechanisms. Link 22 also features automated bandwidth
reallocation depending on user requirements and availabilities.
 IBM Global Business Services 7

IBM has been a major contributor to the development of Link IBM Link 22 capabilities were integrated into the Canadian
22 standards and capabilities since the early 1990s. IBM jointly Department of National Defence HALIFAX Class
developed the system network controller (SNC) and was Modernization/Frigate Life Extension (HCM/FELEX)
responsible for the production of the Link 22 data link program. The HCM/FELEX program upgraded the combat
processor functional requirement specification (FRS). systems capabilities of the Royal Canadian Navy’s Halifax-class
frigates, including new and existing systems.
The SNC is the core component of Link 22 and was integrated
into the Data Link Processing System enclosure by IBM. The The Link 22 capabilities developed by IBM are directly
SNC can dynamically manage up to eight simultaneous implemented into the multilink IBM Data Link Processing
physical radio networks, known as NILE Networks (NN), in a System. These capabilities are also integrated into a modern,
single logical network called the Super Network (SN). Each of service-oriented architecture that can adapt to meet the
the physical radio networks can be HF, UHF, fixed-frequency interoperability requirements of modern operations. The IBM
(FF) or frequency-hopping. UHF links are intended for LOS solution for Link 22 combines extensive domain experience in
communication only. For HF, the algorithms in the SNC are mission-tactical messaging with the technological advantages
optimized to cover a range of 300 nautical miles (NM). Live of IBM, a global leader in enterprise messaging and
trials have shown that ranges over 600 NM can be covered collaboration.
without noticeable problems.
In support of Lockheed Martin Canada (prime contractor),
The SNC overcomes many of the limitations of earlier data IBM provided the new multilink Data Link Processing System
links. Included with the SNC is an automatic routing and relay to replace its Link 11 system.
function for the transfer of messages within the entire SN
without operator assistance. If congestion occurs, the dynamic Companies that want to implement Link 22 capabilities have
congestion management function helps ensure that messages two options:
are routed a different way to reach the intended recipient.
Mission area subnets (MASN) can be established quickly to • If your company is from a country that is one of the NILE
build subnets that can be addressed for operational purposes. member nations, you can contact your government’s NILE
Late network entry (LNE) helps ensure that NILE Units representative.
(NUs) can enter a network at any time. Almost without • If your company is based in a country that is not a NILE
interruption, networks can be dynamically reconfigured or member nation, you can contact the NILE Program
reinitialized if necessary. Management Office to forward your request to the NILE
Steering Committee for guidance and approval.
8 Tactical data links solution for defense from IBM

IBM Data Link Processing System • Receives tactical information from other systems and units,
The IBM Data Link Processing System is a vital component of correlates it with the local picture and reports it to the
the TDL solution and provides a robust multilink system that combat system
uses NATO standards. This system enables interoperability • Transmits the status of friendly ships’ weapon systems and
among various data link standards: engagements
• Transmits instructions for the deployment of other units or
• Link 11 weapons that are under the command system’s control
• Satellite tactical data link (STDL) 16 • Supports data link network management
• JTIDS Link 16 • Correlates and decorrelates relevant data
• MIDS Link 16 • Detects conflicts and gridlock or registration
• Link 22 • Forwards data between the data links
• JREAP A and C • Conducts concurrent operations
• Records data
The IBM Data Link Processing System isolates its host system
from different data formats and protocols of the TDL to The IBM Data Link Processing System is designed to provide
facilitate interoperability. Data is exchanged with the host an intelligent interface system that allows a command system
system in the most appropriate format to the host, and not to interface with TDLs for the exchange of information with
driven by data links. Changes to the TDL standards can be other friendly units. Today, the IBM Data Link Processing
implemented in the IBM Data Link Processing System with System is operational with various military organizations:
reduced impact on the host combat management system,
promoting more cost efficient lifecycle maintenance. • The United Kingdom’s Royal Navy aboard many major
warships, including Type 23 frigates, aircraft carriers, and
The IBM Data Link Processing System includes many landing platform docks and helicopters (LPD/LPH)
functions to improve your operations: • The Federal German Navy onboard the F123 and F122
frigates
• Supports concurrent operations on multiple TDLs with or • The Royal Canadian Navy Halifax Class
without forwarding data between data links • Land-based test and training sites
• Monitors and reports system status and the statuses of other
data link equipment
 IBM Global Business Services 9

The IBM Data Link Processing System software runs on Tactical data links solutions
modern commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware that can and services from IBM
be procured from a broad range of suppliers to meet specific TDLs provide an avenue for transferring tactical data between
client requirements. This software can also be integrated in a different units, such as ships, aircraft and land-based units.
rack-mounted enclosure as shown in Figure 2. IBM has been involved in the provision of TDLs and TDL-
related services to armed forces and procurement agencies
since the 1990s. Since entering the field of TDLs, IBM has
had many major engagements:

• Production of the IBM Data Link Processing System for the

Royal Navy, Federal German Navy and Royal Canadian Navy
• Production of the Autonomous Link Eleven System (ALES)
for the Royal Marines
• Development of the NILE Link 22 program
• Support for the integration of TDL solutions, including
software and hardware for several nations
• Integration and logistical support of Joint Interface Control
Officer (JICO) Support Systems (JSS) for the German
Armed Forces
• Consultation of TDL suppliers and integrators for systems
and units
• Support for the German Navy Link 22 PD study
• Support for the German Navy multilink study (MULUS)
• Development of the Combat Management Integrated
Figure 2: Inside view of the IBM Data Link Processing System rack-mounted System Environment (CMISE)
enclosure. • Development of the UK MOD Tactical Beyond Line-Of-
Sight (TBLOS)
Besides the Data Link Processing System, IBM has developed • Support for the Federal German Navy to define system
an initialization and network management (INMT) tool that integration in iSmart
provides operators with the ability to initialize the system and
control its status while in operation. The initialization function
includes a tool for importing operational setup data from the
OPTASK link and the respective network load files.
10 Tactical data links solution for defense from IBM

Based on this experience, IBM offers many services related to

TDLs. These services include interoperability testing, training
development and the delivery of TDL training courses. For the
Data Link Processing System, IBM offers services for integra-
tion into clients’ environments. Furthermore, IBM offers
integration of third-party systems into client environments.

Technology outlook: Reduced size

and enhanced integration
The IBM tactical data links team ported the IBM TDLs
solution onto a smaller COTS processing unit and integrated
this device with all of the necessary components into a rugged
housing. The goal of this project was to massively reduce the
size, weight and power consumption of the complete TDLs
solution. Included in this device is the latest version of the IBM
Data Links Processing System, the initialization and network
management software, the TDL IBM Display and Control
System and the Link 22 SNC software. Also included is remote
control software for accessing the system from any operator
workstation. The system supports Link 11, Link 16, Link 22 and
JREAP, and can be integrated with various systems and units.

Figure 3 illustrates the reduced size of this solution on a small

form factor PC/104-Plus Single Board Computer (SBC),
which is shown alongside a centimeter measuring tape to
demonstrate the proportions.
Figure 3: TDL system from IBM on a small form factor PC board.
 IBM Global Business Services 11

Why IBM For more information

Successfully addressing the challenges that face defense For more information about defense solutions from IBM, visit
organizations requires more than new technology. It requires ibm.com/industries/government/defense.html.
an end-to-end approach based on a clear understanding of the
issues that clients are working to overcome. IBM helps clients To schedule a briefing and to learn more about the IBM
by providing extensive knowledge of client business processes, Tactical Data Links for defense solution, contact:
advanced business and technological thinking, and talented
professionals who are passionate about what they do. Gordon McDonald, GBS, IBM Canada
[email protected]
IBM is committed to supporting and assisting defense Phone: 1-613-249-1568
organizations as they transition from the industrial age to the Mobile: 1-613-292-9476
information age. The IBM Global Defense Industry is a
dedicated worldwide team of defense industry specialists and or
solution developers who are focused on helping clients achieve
information superiority. Oliver Pahl, GBS, IBM Germany
[email protected]
Network-centric operations solutions from IBM combine Phone: +49-4421-8062-220
insight into defense organizations with leading strategic Mobile: +49-172-6238242
consulting skills. With virtually unparalleled technical assets,
IBM helps clients develop more effective, efficient and
responsive capabilities for their operations.
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October 2016

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