Link 16
From Scramble - The Aviation Magazine
Link 16 (also known as TADIL J in the US) has been designed to optimise the use of the MIDS/JTIDS architecture. Link 16 has been developed to meet the information exchange requirements of all tactical units, supporting the exchange of surveillance data, EW data, mission tasking, weapons assignments and control data.The Link 16 message standard uses J-series messages and completely meets the requirements for C2 functionality and aircraft control. In addition Link 16 has been selected by the US and NATO as the main tactical data link for Theatre Missile Defence.
Numerous platforms have been or will be equipped with Link 16 (Airborne Surveillance and Intelligence Systems, C2 Systems, Fighter and Bomber Aircraft, SAM Systems, Ships, etc). Message standards are defined in STANAG 5516 while standard operating procedures are laid down in ADatP 16.
