Name two common data links used in naval MW and their purpose.

• A. Link 16 for shared track data and command information; Link 11 for interoperability with other platforms and units
• B. Link 22 for navigation, Link 9 for secure voice
• C. Link 4 for encrypted messaging; Link 6 for weather data
• D. Link 14 for missile guidance; Link 18 for voice comms

Answer: (A)

Data links allow ships and platforms to share real-time tactical information, creating a common picture and enabling coordinated actions. The two most common in naval MW are Link 16 and Link 11. Link 16 is the modern, secure, high-capacity data link that provides shared track data and command information, letting units see the same aircraft, ships, and missiles with time-stamped updates and coordinated C2. Link 11, while older, remains essential for interoperability with other platforms and units that don’t have Link 16, enabling exchange of tactical data and orders across different systems and services. Other links exist, but their primary roles differ from the broad, interoperable data-sharing and command-and-control functions that these two provide.