DLS awarded $31m to provide MIDS-LVT for KC-46 tanker program

Data Link Solutions (DLS), a joint venture between Rockwell Collins and BAE Systems, has been awarded a $31 million contract from The Boeing Company to provide Multifunctional Information Distribution System - Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVTs) Link-16 terminals for the U.S. Air Force's KC-46 tanker program.

"This contract enables DLS to continue its leadership position in Link-16 airborne networking and provides Boeing and the Air Force with advanced tactical data link technology for the next generation tanker," said DLS Director Heather Neff.

The initial award includes terminals for laboratory integration testing, flight test and initial production aircraft. The award includes delivery of 179 MIDS-LVT terminals, with subsequent terminals to be delivered incrementally through 2026.

MIDS-LVT was developed by a multinational consortium to provide Link-16 capability at a lower weight, volume and cost. MIDS-LVT provides real-time data communications, situational awareness and navigation, digital voice and TACAN, all in a jam-resistant, crypto-secured package.

The MIDS program is managed by the U.S. Navy MIDS Program Office in San Diego, Calif. Work will be performed in Wayne, N.J., and Cedar Rapids, Iowa.