An Approach for Standardization of Datalink Systems

Abstract

The paper explores the concept of standardization of datalink systems and makes a call for industry involvement in the process of defining an approach to standardization. The objectives are to reduce the Department of Defense (DoD) cost of Major Range and Test Facility Base (MRTFB) operations, to improve interoperability, to have the flexibility to meet unique user needs, to have compatibility with existing systems and standards, and to have the ability to evolve to a next generation of datalink systems. The paper describes several current DoD Central Test and Evaluation Investment Program (CTEIP) projects and shows how dependent and interdependent they are on datalink systems. A new Joint Service CTEIP project, Standard Interoperable Datalink System (SIDS), will become the facilitator in the process of defining a standard datalink, including weapon system/platform telemetry, time-space-position information, target command and control, voice communications, time correlation data, and possibly video.