5-12
NTDS Data Transmission Subsystems
NTDS uses three separate data transmission links to maintain tactical data communications between
tactical units. Figure 5-12 illustrates these links. Each link is able to transfer data rapidly to other ships,
aircraft, and shore facilities without the delay of human interface (link 14 receive is an exception to this).
The data processing subsystem formats the messages for each of the data links. These messages are based
on shipboard inputs (from displays, sensors, and other data links).
Figure 5-12.—NTDS communications links.
The automatic data communications links provide the operational commander with a high-speed,
accurate mode of tactical communications. Link 11 provides high-speed, computer-to-computer transfer
of tactical information, command orders, and unit status to all tactical data systems. View A shows you
this configuration. The type of tactical information currently transferred is surface, subsurface, air, and
EW track information. Data is provided on friendly, hostile, and unknown identity tracks. This broadcast
originates through console button actions by the console operators.
Link 14 provides a means of transmitting track information to those units not capable of participating
in the link 11 network. View B shows this network. This is a one-way broadcast of information.
Link 4A permits the computer to take control of the autopilot in an equipped aircraft. Also this link
can control a plane under other situations. It may control a flight out to a strike area and return it to base
without the need for pilot action. The pilot also has the option of overriding the link. The pilot may use
the visual display to aid in understanding the intercept controller, or to totally ignore the link 4A
