SyntheSys Defence Delivers Further Tactical Data Link Testing Services

Our latest success with United Kingdom (UK) Ministry of Defence

The testing of complex systems and data interfaces does not come without its challenges. As platform exchange requirements become more integrated, complex and specialist, it is vital that Tactical Data Link (TDL) test initiatives are robust, accurate and effective. 

Which is why we are pleased to announce that SyntheSys Defence has been selected to provide further assistance to the Lightweight & Medium Attack Systems Project Team (LMAS PT) on the UK Select Precision Effects At Range (SPEAR) Capability 3 (SC3) Development Phase Programme.  TDL Subject Matter Expertise (SME) and simulation support will be provided to independently test and assess the maturity of the MBDA-developed Network Enabled Weapon (NEW) Link 16 Test Tool based at their Filton site in Bristol. SyntheSys’ mobile TDL simulation suite will be deployed to test the interaction of specific Link 16 exchanges with the NEW capability. 

SyntheSys Defence Operations Director, Mark Hudspeth commented: 

“Our involvement in UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) testing programmes allows us to deliver relevant testing services to the defence market as we adapt to evolving requirements.  Our specialist services contribute to enhanced situational awareness whilst creating confidence in overall MOD programme delivery.  We are delighted to be working with the SPEAR 3 team again and are confident that these crucial services will play a part in the future success of the programme.” 

If testing TDL Interoperability is presenting challenges within your organisation, or you would like to learn more about how we can bring confidence within your testing programmes whilst reducing overall costs, visit: http://www.synthesys-defence.co.uk/interoperability_test_and_evaluation.html or contact Mark at: info@synthesys.co.uk. 

SyntheSys secured the contract as part of a competitive tender process through the Engineering Delivery Partner (EDP) programme being delivered by The Aurora Engineering Partnership.

The EDP programme is the established default route for contracted engineering services for DE&S and is available for use by the wider MOD community.  It is a collaborative, progressive and agile programme that accesses the right skills, expertise and resources to ensure the UK’s Armed Forces and Front-Line Commands receive the best equipment and support. EDP provides capacity and capability across all service areas and focuses on output-based and longer-term outcomes to maximise efficiencies, operational performance, and innovation.  EDP is delivered by the Aurora Engineering Partnership. QinetiQ, Atkins and BMT have joined forces to form The Aurora Engineering Partnership. This brings together considerable cross-sector and non-defence experience, supported by a world class provider network of specialist providers.  All parties committed to implementing longer-term, output-based programmes for engineering services over the 10-year contract

SyntheSys Becomes A Member of MAKE UK Defence

 

With over 30 years’ experience of operating in the Defence industry, we are proud of the relationships we have formed, the projects we have worked on and the knowledge we have gained.

In a bid to continue to strengthen our alliances and knowledge of this thriving sector, we are delighted to announce our membership with the Northern Defence Industries (NDI).

NDI champions and celebrates the United Kingdom’s (UK’s) defence & security industry. The group represents the sector’s interests to government and champions this innovative, global and dynamic industry.  Our membership gives us strong routes into the local Defence industry and allows us to communicate directly with the community.  We look forward to meeting other members at future NDI events.

To hear more about our Defence services, visit www.synthesys-defence.co.uk.  To speak to us directly about our NDI membership or your current programmes, contact us by emailing info@synthesys.co.uk

2021 Tactical Data Link Training Dates Confirmed

 

For many organisations, employee training has assumed a greater priority during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Investing in your personnel has been a critical factor for success in terms of responding to the pandemic, navigating a changing environment, and giving confidence to employees.  For individuals, many of us have increased time and resource for study.

If upskilling yourself or your team remains high on your list of priorities for 2021, you may be interested to know that our Tactical Data Link (TDL) training dates have now been confirmed and we are currently taking registrations for a range of courses throughout the year.

Maybe you are unsure of your exact training requirements?  We can help by offering a complimentary training needs assessment, where we will assist in identifying your needs to ensure that the training received by your personnel is truly valuable to your organisation.

Unique to SyntheSys is the ability to provide a simulation-aided learning process, which ensures our students receive the theory, reinforced by hands-on practical experience. We are also able to offer flexible online delivery for some of our training solutions.

For more information about our TDL training courses, visit: http://www.synthesys-defence.co.uk/data-link-training.html

If you would like to discuss your training requirements with us, or take advantage of our free training needs assessment service, please contact training@synthesys.co.uk

SyntheSys Defence Provides Free Online Tactical Data Link Training

During this difficult period many of us are looking for flexible ways of developing and maintaining key skills, and with so many face-to-face training courses now being cancelled, online training delivery is now more relevant than ever.

In response, we would like to share the full schedule for Free Tactical Data Link (TDL) Training to be delivered by our SyntheSys Defence team:   

• 6^th May 2020 at 09:30 – An Introduction to MIDS/Link 16;
• 20^th May 2020 at 09:30 – An Introduction to Link 22;
• 3^rd June 2020 at 09:30 – An Introduction to Variable Message Format (VMF).

Each delegate attending the course will also receive a free copy of the Introduction to TDLs E-Book to support and enhance the learning experience.  Registration for the live online training sessions must be made via our Defence Community Portal which will also give access to other useful TDL resources.

We welcome anyone from any background to join in.

For more information on what the online courses will cover and details on how to register, visit: http://www.synthesys-defence.co.uk/tactical-data-link-online-training-series.html

or contact us via training@synthesys.co.uk.

Ten out of Ten for TDL Technology Magazine

A proud milestone has been reached with the publication of this bumper tenth issue of TDL Technology magazine.  To mark the occasion, SyntheSys’ Managing Director, John S Hartas, looks back at some of the most notable features throughout the last 10 issues by mentioning the invaluable contributions we have received from esteemed members of the Tactical Data Link (TDL) and wider community, you can read the full feature in John’s letter on Page 3.

Those who know us, know that heritage is important to us, and we build on this sentiment in Issue 10 by looking at the heritage of TDL’s and how codebreaking ace, Gordon Welchman played a significant part in the birth of TDL’s.

We also feature an article from Athanasios Chouliaras via Armada International which examines how the electronic support mission performed by Airborne Early Warning (AEW) aircraft is often overlooked and how this mission could be evolved.

Readers can enjoy other insightful articles and features exploring TDL Interoperability Testing, Requirements Engineering and we put Link 22 under the spotlight in our ‘Demystifying TDL’s’ feature.

READ NOW 

TDL Technology is completely FREE to read.  Prefer to flick through the pages?  We will happily send you a copy, simply email tdltech@synthesys.co.uk

2019 SyntheSys Defence Training Customer Satisfaction Results Published

2019 SyntheSys Defence Training Customer Satisfaction Results Published

Whether you are new to the world of Tactical Data Links (TDLs), or an experienced member of the community, we build our courses to meet all levels of experience. Gathering customer feedback is fundamental to how we design, deliver and improve our training courses, so we are pleased to publish the 2019 customer feedback results from our Tactical Data Link and wider training.

After completing a course, delegates are asked to complete feedback questionnaires which are designed in line with requirements outlined in ISO9001:2015 to capture insight around trainer performance, course material, operational context and overall course feedback.

We are delighted that over 94% of the responses provided to a variety of questions were rated as either ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’.

For more information about our TDL and related training courses, including the 2020 course schedule, course datasheets and syllabi visit: http://www.synthesys-defence.co.uk/data-link-training.html or contact: training@synthesys.co.uk

SyntheSys to attend Diginext Tactical Data Link & Simulation (TDL&S) Symposium

SyntheSys’ partnership with Diginext is built on a firm foundation of mutual value, collaboration and cutting-edge technology.  Having partnered with Diginext for almost a decade to deliver an unrivalled TDL test and simulation experience as part of our Multi-Link Test Facility (MLTF), we are thrilled to be attending this year’s TDL&S Symposium. The event will take place 04-06 June 2019, at the Diginext Corporate Headquarters in Aix-en-Provence, Southern France.

SyntheSys’ Programme Director, Mark Hudspeth, will be attending the event which is an opportunity to share best practices and insight whilst meeting other Diginext software users.

The 2019 event focuses on network-centric warfare and TDLs together with tactical simulation and collaborative training. We hope to see many operational users, colleagues, customers and partners there.

TDL Technology Issue 8: iSMART Document Suite Explained, TDL Standards and a Guest Article like no other!

The latest issue of TDL Technology magazine is out now.  Issue 8 is packed with industry news, best practice pieces and technical insights for the TDL Community.  Of course, not forgetting our ‘Free Resource’ for all readers. 

Get your free copy now to read more about:

• The iSMART Document Suite Explained; What does iSMART provide? 

• Guest Article; Gateway to Multi-Domain Command and Control - The E3-A Final Lifetime Extension Program

• Demystifying Tactical Data Links; TDL Standard

You will also find details about how to access our Free E-Book – ‘A Guide to Choosing a TDL Capability’ which looks at a variety of different considerations when implementing a TDL. To read the digital issue, visit www.tdl-technology.com or contact tdltech@synthesys.co.uk to own a hard copy of the magazine. 

BOOKING NOW OPEN: Data Link Manager (DLM) / Interface Control Officer (ICO) Course taking place 10 – 28 June 2019 in Halmstad, Sweden.

Are you part of a Data Link Management Cell, or perhaps a Multi-Tactical Data Link (TDL) Network Planner or Designer?  Are you involved in TDL sustainment, TDL procurement or multi-TDL Evaluation?  If so, our DLM/ICO course is designed to provide working knowledge to personnel whose role it is to plan, build, manage, interact, develop and engage in Multi-Tactical Data Link Architectures and operations.

At the request of the Swedish Joint Data Link Operations Cell (JDLOC), SyntheSys will be presenting a further 15-day Data Link Manager/Interface Control Officer (DLM/ICO) Training Course at the Technical Training School in Halmstad, Sweden between 10^th and 28^th June 2019.

The DLM/ICO course is designed to catapult individuals with little or no knowledge of TDL and associated responsibilities to a stage where they can successfully and efficiently carry out their duties.  The course provides students with a fundamental understanding of various TDLs, then, using state of the art simulation tools practically applies this knowledge to real-world scenarios.  The DLM/ICO course is based on North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and United States (US) documentation fused with instructor experience.  The course relies on practical exercises and assignments which gives a working understanding of course concepts.

Those with a need to expand their TDL knowledge in theoretical and practical areas of technical specifications, planning, operations, troubleshooting and analysis would benefit from attending this course.  Operational, management and procurement staff are routinely welcomed on the course, as are members of the industry who may be looking to build and design TDL systems.

For more information, including a detailed overview of how you will benefit from attending, a look at what lessons you can expect to learn, and booking information visit; https://bit.ly/2GO7JPz

If you would like to speak to one of our trainers about this course, or any other TDL training requirements, please email training@synthesys.co.uk or telephone +44 (0) 1947 821 464

New VMF Course Hits the Airwaves

In a fast-moving training environment, both operators and engineers need to recognise and subsequently educate themselves as to the latest developments and enhancements. Here at SyntheSys Defence we recognise the importance of this and ensure our training courses provide the most comprehensive learning possible.  Accordingly, we are pleased to announce our new 2.5-day VMF training course which will provide students with both technical and operational instruction on VMF over a Combat Net Radio (CNR) bearer.

The course references US MIL-STD, NATO ATDLPs and UK specification documentation, as well as other technical and operational directives, such as the operational usage of VMF over CNR.  In particular, the course focuses on the VMF Message set and syntax as described in MIL-STD-6017B, the Application Header defined in MIL-STD-2045-47001D Change 1, and the CNR Bearer protocols identified in MIL-STD-188-220D Change 1.  Discussion on the latest revisions of the document set then follows.

Interoperability between systems is discussed in depth, as well as the operational use of VMF. Furthermore, the course has utilised operator procedures detailed within the US Joint Multi-TADIL Operating Procedures. Each student will receive a copy of each of our highly regarded VMF and CNR Handbooks.  These handbooks provide excellent in-depth detail and instruction on both subjects, and act as a valuable reference.

Training Manager Paul Czajkowski said ‘Our VMF training course provides a balanced approach. We recognise that the requirements of the operational community, compared to that of engineers can, on many occasions, be very different.  Our flexible approach ensures we incorporate as many learning styles as possible, according to the role of those attending the course.  The VMF course includes subjects such as message set and syntax, CNR bearer protocols, VMF Planning, Network Access Control, through to Digitally Aided Close Air Support Block 1 & 2 Engineering Change Proposals.’

For further detail, download the information sheet here, or to receive a full syllabus, contact training@synthesys.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1947 821 464. 

SyntheSys hits the ground running with the first 2017 Data Link Manager/Interface Control Officer (DLM/ICO) course taking place at the Combined Air Operations Centre (CAOC) Uedem

SyntheSys Training Services is delighted to announce that the first DLM/ICO course of 2017 will be held at the CAOC Uedem, Germany.  The course will be held between the 20 February and 10 March with NATO once again hosting the event.  NATO personnel from a variety of positions will be in attendance, along with other personnel from a range of nations and organisations across Europe. 

All attendees who undertake the three-week course leave with a comprehensive understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a DLM/ICO.  The added benefit and use of extensive practical exercises and simulation create an enjoyable learning environment. 

If you would like to join the course or would like to know more about the Learning Outcomes within the syllabus, then please contact us at 

training@synthesys.co.uk  

Great to see you at IDLS 2016

The 2016 annual International Data Link Symposium (IDLS) proved to be a valuable, interesting and enjoyable event at which we had the opportunity to meet with colleagues and customers throughout the Tactical Data Link (TDL) Community.

In keeping with our overall business objective to create an integrated TDL Community, we were pleased to see so many delegates participate in our ‘Follow the Link’ competition.  Congratulations go to Roberto Silva from Ultra Electronics and Simon Verduijn from the Royal Netherlands Navy who each won a Kindle Fire.

Our training day for this year’s show took an interactive approach where we provided a Joint Range Extension Application Protocol (JREAP) training course.  Our trainers, Paul Czajkowski (Ski) and Tony Castle, delivered the ‘JREAP - How does it work and what does it provide the user?’ training course, which delivered a definition of JREAP along with how JREAP users can interact with Link 16 networks, together with advantages and capabilities.  The training was split into two parts which enabled attendees to apply the learnt theory in a simulated training environment using the Daronmont Data Link Training Suite (DLTS) and the Engility Joint Range Extension (JRE) software.

Our educational contribution did not end there.  For delegates particularly interested in Variable Message Format (VMF), Tony Castle delivered a presentation on day one giving an introduction to this subject covering VMF capabilities, message and header format and users.

On day two, Ski delivered a 45 minute lesson aimed at all international delegates who sought an interesting introduction to Link 22.  The lesson referenced NATO standards and documents, and also examined the main features of Link 22, Operational Net Cycle Structure and Assignment Slots.  Ski also provided a comparison of Link 22 versus other Links such as Link 11 and Link 16.

Tony Castle rounded up our educational presentations with a condensed version of the JREAP training day, which was aimed at delegates who were interested in high level information relating to JREAP.  Tony examined many elements including; the need for JREAP, common time references, JREAP media types and management messages.

You can access all the presentation material relevant to our workshops on the IDLS website.  

IDLS gave us an excellent opportunity to distribute the latest issue of our ‘TDL Technology’ magazine and we were glad to speak to many members of the community who have great ideas for features in the ‘Community Forum’ section of the magazine.  Please contact sarah_thomas@synthesys.co.uk if you would like to feature in future magazines.

For further information on any of our services, or to hear more about how we are involved with the International Data Link Society, please contact info@synthesys.co.uk.

The Third Issue of SyntheSys’ TDL Technology Magazine is Now Available

We are pleased to announce the arrival of the third issue of the TDL Technology magazine.  Many of you have read and enjoyed the first two issues of our magazine, the last of which was published in the spring.  Thanks to your subscriptions and support, it seems to be going from strength to strength.  For this issue, we have introduced our TDL Technology community forum which is a section of the magazine where we invite contributions from other organisations.  We are delighted that we have been able to include articles from Engility, DIGINEXT and the Royal Naval Air Station at Culdrose.

In our latest issue we feature our regular ‘Ask the TDL Expert’ article, further articles on modelling to support interoperability and a guide to choosing a TDL Capability.

To read the free online version and to subscribe to future issues, please visit 

www.tdl-technology.com or, if you would prefer to receive a free hard copy, contact tdltech@synthesys.co.uk.

TDL Technology is back!

We are delighted with the response that we received from our first special edition of the TDL Technology publication in November 2015.  Our thanks go out to the many of you who subscribed and provided such positive feedback. Our second issue is now available and includes articles on: 

• Requirements Management & Model-Based Systems Engineering in Defence - Minimising issues early in the process
• Simulated TDL Environment with Daronmont- Daronmont Link Training Suite (DLTS) first choice for Australian Navy and Defence Force link training
• Ask the TDL Expert- Maximising the potential of rig to rig trial involvement

We are also giving away our Tactical Data Link Reference Guide to every reader which consolidates essential details on JTIDS MIDS/Link 16, Link 11A, Variable Message Format (VMF) and Combat Net Radio (CNR).  The guide provides useful information such as Initialisation Tables, Time Slot Packing Levels and Access Modes.

To read the free online version and to subscribe to future issues, please visit www.tdl-technology.com or if you would prefer to receive a free hard copy, contact tdltech@synthesys.co.uk

Finally, we would love to hear from you!  Have you got something to shout about?  A burning question to ask, or a topic you are passionate about and would like the opportunity to share your thoughts.  We are inviting members of the TDL & related communities to contribute to a TDL Technology industry forum for our next issue which is dedicated to you.  If you are interested in contributing to this industry magazine, please contact Sarah Thomas: sarah_thomas@synthesys.co.uk

Happy Reading! 

TDL Technology Lands!

SyntheSys is delighted to announce the launch of TDL Technology magazine – one of the first of its kind for the Tactical Data Link (TDL) industry.

This value added, exclusive magazine presents a collection of articles about all aspects of TDL implementation, integration and management.  We hope that you, our colleagues and customers throughout the TDL community, will find it both interesting and useful.

Get your free copy now to read more about:

• How TDL Interoperability can be simplified through the seven simple expedients.  Page 7
• Standards Conformance Testing- Application to VMF.  Page 13
• Ask the TDL Expert ‘Should I build DNM into my network and encourage it’s use?  Page 11

TDL Technology is out now, you can read the online magazine by visiting http://www.synthesys.co.uk/tdl-technology.html  or if you would like a free physical copy of the magazine please contact info@synthesys.co.uk

UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) Abbey Wood Hosts SyntheSys Tactical Data Links (TDL) Training Course

The UK MoD Abbey Wood site near Bristol has recently hosted a one day ‘Introduction to TDLs’ training course.  The training provided a high level overview of Links 1, 11, 16 & 22 with additional insight into both Variable Message Format (VMF) and Joint Range Extension Application Protocol (JREAP).  Furthermore, there was instruction and discussion on enhancements to current systems along with future programmes being developed.  As with all of our training courses, each attendee received a hard copy of the relevant training manual, in this case our extensive – ‘Introduction to TDLs’ manual. 

As part of our continued engagement with the TDL community, we will be attending the International Data Links Symposium (IDLS) in Ottawa, Canada 3^rd- 6^th November 2015.  We look forward to meeting both current and future clients.  If you would like to know more about what SyntheSys can do for you, then please visit www.synthesystraining.co.uk or contact us at training@synthesys.co.uk. 

German Air Force and AIRBUS Defence & Space Receive SyntheSys Link 16 Training

Once again we are pleased to announce the successful delivery of Link 16 training to both the German Air Force and AIRBUS engineering staff.

The two and a half day training course provided personnel with a balanced and in-depth understanding of both the operational and technical aspects of JTIDS/MIDS Link 16.  The training focused on the Typhoon and investigated areas in which its interoperability could be improved.  Of particular interest to the attendees was the complex exchange of the J12.6 Target Sorting Message when utilised on both NPG 9 (Control) and NPG 19 (Fighter-to-Fighter A).  All those who attended were also able to benefit from the Link 16 simulation software - Daronmont Data Link Training Suite 16.  The use of this software supported each individual in acquiring a clearer understanding of the subjects taught.

If you would like to know more about how SyntheSys can support your TDL training requirements or enhance the TDL knowledge of your personnel through interactive simulation and real world software, please contact training@synthesys.co.uk

SyntheSys to Provide TDL Training to United Kingdom Joint Data Link Management Organisation (UKJDLMO)

We are delighted to have been awarded a 2 year contract to provide Advanced Link 16 and multi TDL training to the UKJDLMO and other invited UK personnel from all 3 services.  The training will be in 2 parts, a 3 day Advanced Link 16 course and a further 12 days looking at multi TDL planning and operations.  As well as the standard Power Point presentations, the students will benefit from a range of practical exercises utilising our unrivalled suite of real tools and simulation.  For this course we will use the Data Link Training Suites (DLTS) 11 & 16 which provide a realistic data link network in a classroom environment.  We will also use the TACTX multi TDL simulator, Hewlett Packard’s Tactical Network Design Station (TNDS), Joint Range Extension (JRE) and, for the first time, the TacPlan multi TDL planning tool.

To ensure a complete understanding of the material presented, we will also utilise another addition to our training capability, the Qwizdom interactive question and answer system.  Each student will be provided with a handset enabling them to answer a test of understanding given at the end of each day.  The system then provides immediate feedback to the instructors indicating that the subject has been properly understood.  It also provides data to ensure fully focussed review and consolidation sessions.

The first course will start at the end of June 2015,  SyntheSys looks forward to working with the UKJDLMO and providing the knowledge transfer required to enable the attendees to carry out their duties more effectively and efficiently.

For further details on TDL and other related training courses we provide visit http://www.synthesystraining.co.uk or contact us by emailing training@synthesys.co.uk.

Multi National Personnel Complete SyntheSys Data Link Manager (DLM)/Interface Control Officer (ICO) Training Course

We are pleased to announce that personnel from the Norwegian TDL Squadron, Swedish and Finnish JDLOC and Royal Netherlands Air Force have successfully completed our three week DLM/ICO Training Course.

The course was hosted by the Norwegian TDL Squadron at Jørstadmoen camp in the picturesque area of Lillehammer.  Attendees were provided with in depth instruction on Link 1, 11, 16, 22, Variable Message Format and Joint Range Extension Application Protocols.  Using their acquired knowledge and working in small groups, they then continued with a series of challenging Multi TDL Planning exercises, where they had to define progressively more complex TDL architectures and subsequently coordinate the correct allocation of TDL parameters.  Multi National operations and exercises are increasingly demanding more from DLM/ICO and Data Link Management Cell personnel.  Accordingly, our practical modules are designed to thoroughly test, educate and ultimately develop these personnel for the challenges that lie ahead.

Students then briefed their plan before testing and ultimately validating their architecture through the use of simulation and real world operational software.  This interactive learning environment enabled all students to fully visualise their operational plan, identifying elements such as the potential for data looping or the misallocation of critical TDL duties and their impact.  This allowed each individual to manage their architecture as a DLM/ICO would, helping to build confidence, and to apply their newly gained skills and theory in an enjoyable and cooperative learning atmosphere.

SyntheSys would like to thank all those who attended, especially the Norwegian TDL Squadron for hosting this event.  Our next course will be held at CAOC Uedem in June, once again continuing to attract more interest than there are places available.  

If you, or any of your team, want to learn more about the fundamentals of a Data Link environment and how to plan, design, manage and analyse Multi Link Networks, contact our training team here. For details of our 2015 course dates and to secure your FREE copy of the full syllabus, visit our website here

SyntheSys Provides TDL Training to Brunei MOD

SyntheSys is delighted to have recently been given the opportunity to provide Tactical Data Link (TDL) training to a group of uniformed and civilian personnel at the Brunei Ministry of Defence (Mindef) establishment, in the nation’s capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. Ten personnel from operational, engineering and research disciplines undertook instruction covering various aspects of technical and operational usage of a variety of TDL systems.  SyntheSys would like to thank the Brunei Mindef for their invitation and hospitality, and also for providing some much needed warm weather.

If you would like any information on our training courses please go to http://www.synthesystraining.co.uk/ where you can download our full training catalogue, or contact us at training@synthesys.co.uk