Link 16

Definition

Link 16 is a TDMA, frequency-hopping, jam-resistant tactical datalink (STANAG 5516) used across NATO air, naval, and ground forces. It carries situational awareness tracks, voice, and weapons coordination messages, and is the canonical baseline for crewed-uncrewed teaming retrofits when more advanced waveforms are not yet fielded.

Reference attributes

Standard

STANAG 5516; MIL-STD-6016

Access

TDMA

Resilience

FHSS jam-resistant

Related terms

• Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL)
  Low-probability-of-intercept stealth datalink used by F-35 and select fifth-gen aircraft.
• Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT)
  High-rate, low-latency IP-based airborne network optimized for closing kill chains.
• Anti-Jam Techniques (AJ)
  Waveform and protocol techniques that preserve link integrity under deliberate jamming.