Updated: 2023-05-18 --- # Datalink Datalink is a effectively a private network connecting military equipment such as aircraft, ships, satellites, and ground forces. Datalink provides different services, including transmission of surveillance data, voice communications, text communications, and flight control. Multiple datalink networks of different datalinks and different networks within the same datalink can exist simultaneously. Datalink also enables PPLI or precise participant locating system, which allows each member of the link to have precise location data on themselves and each other member of the link even in the presence of GPS jamming. # Link 4/11/16 There are three datalinks in use by the aircraft in DCS and in real life. Link 4 or “Dolly” Link 11 or “Gator” and Link 16 or “Timber”. The E-2 is capable of communicating over all 3 links, the F-14 can utilize Link 4, and the F/A-18 can utilize link 16. In DCS, the link 4 enables the tomcat to receive the 8 closest tracks to their position, either friendly, neutral or enemy. It also enables ACLS landings on the carrier and provides loadout information to LotATC. The F-14 is also capable of a Link 4C fighter to fighter datalink with up to 4 aircraft. In DCS, the link 16 enables the hornet to receive all track data that is supplied by the ingame AEW/AWACS aircraft, 2 voice communications channels, ACLS landings and loadout information to LotATC. # Link Symbology Datalink uses standard symbology to describe the contacts domain and affiliation. Color describes affiliation, and shape is used for both domain and affiliation. In LotATC, all friendly contacts will be automatically defined with correct symbology by the datalink. Unknown will be the default affiliation that controllers will set contacts to that do not meet PID criteria. Neutral contacts will be set to neutral, contacts IDed and with the declaration of bandit will be set to suspect, and contacts will on be set with a hostile affiliation if the contact has been declared hostile. ![[Pasted image 20230811234844.png|500]]