Tactical Data Networks Enterprise

Tactical Data Networks Enterprise falls under the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) Budget Activity 3600 of the Air Force. The program aims to develop, enhance, and field Tactical Data Links (TDL) including internet protocol (IP) networks, advanced waveforms, radios, network management tools, and associated hardware and software that comprise the Joint Aerial Layer Network (JALN). This involves upgrading currently fielded communications and TDL systems and IP networks to align with the development and fielding of more advanced systems in support of the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS). The program supports the development, fielding, and training of aerial layer networking capabilities across multiple force projection missions including air superiority, ground precision attack, command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and personal recovery while integrating capabilities with space operations. It also ensures enhanced interoperability of Air Force and joint/coalition/NATO assets through efforts such as early systems engineering for program requirements analysis and architectural design development.

The specific objectives of this program include providing enhanced air domain situational awareness, positive combat identification of aircraft in the network, fusion/correlation of on- and off-board sensor data, digital sharing of machine-to-machine target and threat information to enable time-critical targeting and other mission assignment tasking. Additionally, it aims to increase mission effectiveness by providing interoperability, local and global connectivity, and situational awareness to users when training or fighting under rapidly changing operational conditions. The program also supports the development of a Software Programmable Open Mission System Compliant (SPOC) radio terminal prototype aimed at hosting a variety of advanced tactical datalinks to improve connectivity and situational awareness for the warfighter. Furthermore, it includes efforts to develop communication gateways necessary for systems integration and information exchanges across disparate physical and logical network pathways. These objectives align with the broader goal of enhancing communication capabilities within highly contested environments in support of the Air Superiority 2030 Flight Plan.