Bellinger Instruments has announced it has completed the first step in establishing an Australian-based full depot repair capability for Link-11 and Link-22 Data Terminal Set (DTS) systems.

Specifically, DRS Technologies has completed delivery of formal DTS modification training to Bellinger Instruments that will enable them to modify existing ADF DTS systems with additional capabilities.

"The relationship will alleviate lengthy shipping times of critical warfighter equipment."

“This systems modification training is strategically important as it squarely places the Bellinger Instruments team in a trusted position to a very important customer for the Support of Tactical Data Link Systems going forward,” CEO Bellinger Instruments Bob Ferrari said.

“This relationship continues a long association between Bellinger Instruments and the ADF by leveraging the capabilities and geographic proximity of Bellinger Instruments to DRS’s customer, thus alleviating lengthy shipping times of critical warfighter equipment,” Ferrari said.

“This relationship is a win-win for all parties involved and affords us the opportunity to grow this relationship in the future as opportunities arise.”

A formal presentation was made on May 2016 in Brisbane at the Link-22 Masterclass between DRS Technologies, ADF and Bellinger Instrument officials.

The Link-22 Masterclass forum run by the ADF facilitates access to industry experts to enable Defence program managers and engineers to gain valuable insight into lessons learned in the rollout of this significant new technology in other programs around the world.

Link-22 in Australia is currently undergoing trials and evaluation in the lab and Bellinger business manager David Hartshorne said field testing would begin shortly.

“Once that phase has been ticked off, the system will be rolled out through the ADF,” Hartshorne said.