NDC Outlook 08-2026: Tactical datalinks: why they matter to the future of war, by Thomas Withington 1
Summary
- The realization of Tactical Datalinks (TDLs) by NATO – secure, encrypted communications between military assets – is one of the Alliance’s great unsung success stories.
- TDLs are essential for achieving victory at the tactical, operational and strategic levels, especially in Multi-Domain Operations.
- NATO’s approach to developing its TDLs has demonstrated a foresight that should influence the Alliance’s future communications networks.
NDC Public Affairs Office
- NDC Senior Non-Resident Associate Fellow, analyst and military historian specializing in electronic warfare, radar and military communications. ↩︎
NATO Defense College