BAE Systems has been awarded an $85 million contract by the U.S. Navy to deliver Network Tactical Common Data Link (NTCDL) systems, a cutting-edge solution designed to enhance secure communication and real-time data exchange across the Navy's fleet.
The NTCDL systems, already being installed on U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, will also be integrated into the Navy's new Constellation-class frigates. This technology ensures the Navy's ability to exchange critical voice, data, imagery, and full-motion video in real time, providing unparalleled situational awareness and operational advantage on the battlefield.
Amber Dolan, Director of Adaptive Communications and Sensing at BAE Systems, emphasized the significance of the project:
“We have designed and produced a faster next-generation system to meet the demands of our customers’ evolving connectivity mission requirements. BAE Systems is committed to providing the U.S. Navy with a trusted and secure solution to transmit and receive the critical information needed to successfully accomplish its missions across the fleet.”
Revolutionizing Naval Communications
NTCDL is a scalable, modular solution that supports simultaneous operations across air, surface, subsurface, and man-portable platforms. It increases communication capacity and adapts to evolving waveforms, enabling effective use of both current and next-generation manned and unmanned systems.
The system allows operators to seamlessly transmit and receive real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) data from multiple sources. It also supports command and control information sharing across independent networks, fostering cohesive communication among diverse forces.
Extending Capabilities
This contract modification extends the program’s timeline by three years, showcasing the Navy’s trust in BAE Systems’ expertise. As the original developer of NTCDL, BAE Systems is equipped to meet the program’s critical timelines with advanced engineering and production capabilities.
Work for this contract will be conducted at BAE Systems facilities in Maryland, Colorado, New Jersey, and New York.
Enabling Integrated Tactical Networks
The NTCDL enhances the U.S. Navy’s operational efficiency by creating an integrated tactical network that links platforms across land, sea, and air domains. This secure and versatile communication solution strengthens the Navy’s ability to respond to dynamic mission demands effectively.
Click here to learn more about NTCDL.
