Israel Enhances Python-5 Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile Capability with Global Link Tactical Data Link Software Radio

According to the Janes website June 18, 2021, Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has used networking capabilities to enhance its fifth-generation Python-5 short-range air-to-air missile (AAM) capabilities, enabling it to be used in tactical Target acquisition from aircraft equipped with the Global Link software-defined radio (SDR) system in an air-to-air environment.

Based on Rafael’s proprietary BNET technology, Global Link is an advanced airborne multi-band (VHF/UHF+L-band) highly automated IP MANET software-defined radio designed to enhance security information between modern fighters in tactical operations exchange capability. MANET is a multi-hop, self-configuring, autonomous network that uses intermediate mobile nodes as routers to transfer data between mobile devices.

Global Link uses Multi-Channel Receive (MCR) technology that supports both traditional (AM/FM) communications and advanced MANET waveforms. With its high-capacity data, digital voice and video, and automatic multi-relay capability, it creates a tactical network between fast jets that not only enhances airborne situational awareness, but also provides support for Rafael’s “Monycon-” 5″ and other air-to-air missiles provide the uplink.

As a result, modern fighter jets equipped with Global Link will be able to fire Python-5 air-to-air missiles against targets acquired from tactical networks rather than their own radars. The company official said there is no need to install additional transceivers on the aircraft because the same software-defined radios can also be used for uplinks to missiles.