Data Links have become a benchmark technology for real-time communication between different systems, platforms and networks. They can be used in any sector, from telecommunications to transport and critical infrastructure, where they act as key enablers for the rapid and effective coordination of different actors involved in an operation.
This ability to provide instant and accurate information has made Data Links an indispensable strategic tool for speeding up decision making and optimizing operations, especially in the defense and security field. The flip side of the coin is that Data Links open up a new front in the field of secure communications. As cybersecurity attacks increase, there is a new front in this fight and, due to the sensitive information they handle, they must address any vulnerability so as not to jeopardize a compromised operation. All this, in an operating environment increasingly oriented to the integration of different media and interoperability of platforms and nodes from different fields.
Why Data Links are a strategic advantage
Data Links play a crucial role in coordinating operations in complex and dynamic environments. Their ability to interconnect multiple systems and transmit instantaneous information between them allows for a much more efficient management of resources. Especially in those operations that require constant monitoring to make quick decisions based on data received in real time. One of the greatest benefits of Data Links is their ability to manage interoperability between disparate systems. For example, in the management of power grids or intelligent transportation systems, Data Links allow different components (such as sensors, vehicles and control centers) to communicate seamlessly and in real time. This ability to connect various subsystems into a single communications network provides a comprehensive, real-time view of operations, resulting in better decision making and optimal use of resources. In addition, data links are a critical enabler for IoT (Internet of Things) based systems. As the number of connected devices grows, Data Links enable them to exchange large amounts of data, providing a continuous flow of information that facilitates automation and artificial intelligence. Whether in smart cities, automated factories or digitized supply chains, Data Links enable all components to work synchronously to improve efficiency, safety and productivity. But to ensure better interoperability, it is essential that these devices incorporate some measure of encryption and authentication to protect the information we are about to transmit.
Security challenges and technological solutions
Attacks on cybersecurity or new types of threats such as electronic warfare and electronic warfare can severely compromise critical operations that we have to carry out. How do these attacks affect data links?
Jamming
One of the main risks is interference or interruptions in communications, especially in environments where data transmissions must be reliable and continuous. For example, in the military field. Jamming attacks can temporarily disable communications between systems, which could lead to significant disruptions in critical operations. To mitigate this risk, modern data links implement advanced technologies in transmission securization, such as variable frequency modulation and jamming resilience. These techniques allow systems to dynamically change frequency, making it more difficult for an attacker to effectively jam the signal. In this way, communications can continue smoothly, even under adverse conditions.
Hacking
Another key challenge for data links is hacking and interception of communications. In a world where cyber attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, Data Links that transmit critical information are an attractive target for malicious actors. Interception of sensitive data or unauthorized access to communication networks could seriously compromise the security of industrial, financial or even government operations. To counter these threats, advanced Data Links systems use communication securitization techniques, such as robust encryption protocols that ensure that transmitted data can only be read by authorized parties. In addition, authentication and access control systems ensure that only approved users and devices can connect to and operate within the communication network. These security measures are essential to protect critical infrastructures that depend on reliable data links.
Combined weaknesses and failures
In addition to cyber security, system resilience is a crucial factor in ensuring operational continuity. In many industries, redundancy has become a key strategy to keep communications up and running, even in the event of technical failures or external attacks. By having alternative communication paths, systems can continue to function without interruption, ensuring the reliability of operations at critical times. Finally, data links also face the challenge of combined failures, i.e., when multiple systems or technologies fail at the same time. To address these scenarios, state-of-the-art data links are designed with advanced fault management capabilities that enable systems to identify and respond to abnormal situations quickly, minimizing the impact on operations.
LINPRO, an international benchmark in data link processing
In the field of defense, the need for more versatile and efficient tactical communication systems has prompted many countries to seek solutions that allow real interoperability between different platforms and forces. The limitations of traditional systems, closely coupled to combat systems (CMS), have hindered the evolution and adaptation of communication protocols, and have increased the complexity to incorporate new standards. In this context, Grupo Oesía, through its brand Tecnobit, developed a pioneering solution: LINPRO, a data link processor that has transformed the landscape of tactical communications at an international level. Existing tactical communications systems, integrated directly into combat systems, lacked the flexibility to update protocols and did not allow simultaneous and effective operation of multiple standards. To solve this limitation, Tecnobit-Oesia Group opted for a radically different approach: to create an external, modular and scalable Data Link processor, operating independently from the command and control system (CMS) of any platform. This new design allowed the core of the system to be reusable on different platforms, offering interoperability between networks and the possibility of adapting its functionalities without compromising the security and confidentiality of the information. In collaboration with the Spanish Navy, LINPRO (Data LINk PROcessor) was born in 2000 as a significant advance in tactical link processing, based on the experience acquired with its predecessor CRETA in the 90s. From its inception, LINPRO integrated the Link-11 and Link-16 standards, and evolved to incorporate early on the new Link-22 protocol, along with JREAP and VMF, making it a multi-protocol reference system. This flexibility and upgradeability has allowed LINPRO to be deployed in almost a hundred units in the Spanish Navy and on platforms in a multitude of countries, including the Netherlands, Japan, Belgium, Portugal, Germany, Sweden, Bulgaria, Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom, among others. Its success in demanding international markets has positioned the processor as a leading interoperability solution for ships, shore centers and aircraft, thanks to its ability to manage and forward data simultaneously between the main link standards.
Experience outside the NATO environment
Inspired by the advanced capabilities of NATO’s LINK-22 system, the Bangladesh Navy identified the lack of a similar solution to connect and coordinate its naval units, air and ground stations. Again, Tecnobit-Oesia Group presented an innovative proposal to meet these needs with a custom-designed approach. The solution included a comprehensive system based on a proprietary, state-of-the-art protocol called Openlink. The proposal, in addition to all the elements of the communications chain of a tactical Data Link, included a powerful encryptor to protect both voice and data transmitted, ensuring that strategic information remained out of reach of potential adversaries. In a second phase, a complete end-to-end key management system was also provided for all platforms. This project required the integration of the new systems on sixteen different platforms, including surface ships, submarines, maritime patrol aircraft, shore stations and the training of professionals for effective knowledge transfer and efficient implementation. From this base, a complete system christened Bangla-22 was developed, which combined a dedicated Data Link processor and operator consoles to facilitate the day-to-day activity of the Bangladesh Navy. This complete solution has been designed not only to meet operational requirements, but also to offer scope for future growth and adaptation, providing the Bangladesh Navy with a reliable, high-performance solution.