Link 22

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Link 22 is a NATO standard for wireless information interchange between military units. Link 22 is also a very robust Ad-Hoc Mobile Multi-Radio Network, specialized in Military Tactical Information exchange.

The development of Link 22 started in 1992 as NATO Improved Link 11 (NILE) with the goal of replacing the aging Link 11 standard and be interoperable with Link 16 networks. The participating NATO members are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom and the USA.

Link 22 transmits data in fixed-format 9 byte long datagrams, the format is compatible to that of Link 16. Like Link 16, communication channels are shared using TDMA protocols. The specification for Link 22 is the NATO Standardization Agreement (STANAG) 5522.

However, the structure of the Link 22 Network Layer allows for the transmission of any kind and length of data, with automated routing and relaying mechanisms, along with automated bandwidth reallocation depending on user requirements and availabilities. The core component of Link 22, known as the System Network Controller (SNC), includes all necessary protocols in order to readjust dynamically to the overall network needs, and is commonly developed and funded for by the NATO NILE nations.

The System Network Controller can manage dynamically up to 8 simultaneous physical radio networks, known as the NILE Networks (NN), in a single logical network, known as the Super Network (SN). Each of those physical radio networks can be either one of the following: HF and UHF radio, either Fixed Frequency (FF) or Frequency-Hopping (EPM). UHF links are intended for line of sight communication only and HF links for long ranges up to 300 nautical miles.