Navy asks ViaSat to modernize cryptography in MIDS-LVT secure communications networking for military systems
SAN DIEGO – Secure communications experts at ViaSat Inc. in Carlsbad, Calif., will modernize cryptography and enhance data throughput in a U.S. military secure digital data and voice communications system under terms of a $75.4 million order announced Tuesday.
Officials of the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWARSYSCOM) in San Diego are asking ViaSat for the block upgrade II retrofit of the Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Low Volume Terminals (MIDS-LVT).
The terminals provide secure, high-capacity, jam-resistant, digital data and voice communications capability for Navy, Air Force and Army systems, as well as U.S. allies.
The MIDS-LVT system provides provide high-capacity, jam-resistant digital data and voice secure communications capability for aircraft, ships, and ground applications. The MIDS-LVT block upgrade II involves crypto-modernization, enhanced throughput, and frequency remapping requirements.
MIDS-LVT was developed to provide secure Link 16 capability at a relatively low weight, volume, and cost. Link 16 provides real-time data communications, situational awareness and navigation, and in some cases digital voice, all in a jam-resistant, crypto-secured, information security package.
This order is part of a long-term program designed to meet the requirements of U.S. and allied forces for communications among airborne, shipboard, and ground forces. The terminals are being installed on the U.S. Navy F/A-18E/F, U.S. Air Force F-16, B-1, B-2 and B-52, and on U.S. and allied naval ships.
On this order ViaSat will do the work in Carlsbad, Calif., and should be finished by May 2024. For more information contact ViaSat online at www.viasat.com, or NAVWARSYSCOM at www.public.navy.mil/navwar.
John Keller | Editor-in-Chief
John Keller is the Editor-in-Chief, Military & Aerospace Electronics Magazine--provides extensive coverage and analysis of enabling electronics and optoelectronic technologies in military, space and commercial aviation applications. John has been a member of the Military & Aerospace Electronics staff since 1989 and chief editor since 1995.
