L3Harris Technologies revealed on Monday the signing of an agreement to buy Viasat’s Tactical Data Links (TDL) product line for approximately $1.96 billion.
Also known as Link 16, the TDL network is integrated on military aircraft, ground vehicles, surface vessels and operating bases, enabling warfighters across multiple domains to securely share voice and data communications.
Subject to customary adjustments, L3Harris is poised to acquire the TDL product line from Viasat’s Government Systems Segment, consisting of Link 16 Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS) platforms and associated terminals, which are installed in more than 20,000 US and allied platforms.
“This acquisition is part of our strategic effort to ensure operators have access to the most advanced, multi-function Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) solutions available,” said Christopher E. Kubasik, L3Harris CEO and Chair. “Viasat’s TDL product line naturally aligns with our proven communication capabilities, and we are excited to partner with our customers and coalition allies as we modernize the Link 16 enterprise.”
Already a JADC2 prime, L3Harris secured a contract this July to provide the backbone of the Navy’s JADC2 architecture and integrated fires capability.
Last month, L3Harris announced it is one of five companies the US Air Force selected to be a part of the Advanced Battle Management System Digital Infrastructure Consortium to design and develop the JADC2 digital backbone for the Department of the Air Force, aligned with Secretary Kendall’s new C3BM vision.
L3Harris said the latest purchase would allow it to expand resilient communication and networking capabilities to a larger user base, achieving broader end-to-end, sensor-to-shooter connectivity – from operators to platforms or weapons data links and beyond – across multiple domains.
“Given Viasat’s increasing focus on space networks, integrating TDL with L3Harris and its portfolio of C2 assets and resources, offers new forms of growth opportunities and our long-time strategic partnership on TDL products provides a solid foundation,” said Mark Dankberg, Viasat chairman and CEO.
Viasat’s TDL product line is comprised of 450 employees and generates approximately $400 million in annual sales. The takeover is expected to close in the first half of 2023, subject to required regulatory approvals and clearances and other customary closing conditions.
