• Link 11 Monitoring System (LMS-11) Training:  This is a five-day, Link-11 operator and maintenance training course providing in-depth instruction in general Link-11 fundamentals and the basic use of a LMS-11.  This course is geared toward both the operator and the technician and is held on an "as-needed" basis upon the request of a unit/TG.  Upon completion of this course of instruction, students will have a comprehensive working and technical knowledge of the TADIL environment, including how to troubleshoot the Link-11 architecture using the unique capabilities of the LMS-11. Although originally developed for Link-111 (LMS-11 equipped) units, this course is highly recommended for all TDS/CND platforms.   All CIC/CDC tactical watch officers, TAO’s, junior officers, operators, and technicians benefit from this course by assisting in building an extremely valuable link management team.
  
  
• LMS-11 Pre-wire/Installation: Services are performed by Detachments ONE and TWO upon tasking from COMNAVSURFPAC or COMSECONDFLT.  NCTSI is the Inter-Service Engineering Agent (ISEA) for the LMS-11 System.  NCTSI provides support to respective CINC'S by maintaining a pool of (30) LMS-11 monitors that rotate to deploying fleet units in support of TF/TG requirements.  NCTSI provides all maintenance, installation, and training support.  Due to the expense, sensitivity, and limited number of LMS-11's, some cross-decking is required.   Ships must coordinate directly with COMNAVSURFPAC or COMSECONDFLT for all LMS-11 pre-wire, install, cross-decking, and removal matters.  (CINCLANTFLT) requires LMS-11s to be included in the D-30 ITDC process IAW TCDC initiatives. Three LMS-11R assets owned by COMNAVAIRLANT are managed and distributed at the direction of AIRLANT.) As USQ-125 and Common Datalink Monitoring System (CDLMS) production units are installed, existing LMS-11 units will be phased out in favor of these newer Link-11 terminals with the integrated LMS-11 capabilities.
  
  
• Inport Link Training: Detachments ONE, TWO, and FIVE work in conjunction with shore-based training activities providing opportunities for units pierside to test and train on a monthly basis.  Det ONE supports FCTCPAC inport exercises as an active participant and for conducting online data analysis.  Det TWO supports FCTCLANT inport exercises as an active participant and for conducting online data analysis.  Det FIVE supports ATRC Det Yokosuka and CTF-70.
  

Testing Services:  Our experienced Navy and contractor TADIL operators, technicians, and engineers, using specialized test equipment, are uniquely capable of analyzing a unit’s data link readiness.  Detachments ONE, TWO, and FIVE work with the individual ship, submarine, or aircraft squadron, in a non-attribution assist mode, to assess and optimize that unit’s TADIL capabilities.  Today’s complex and information-oriented naval combat environment demands nothing less than complete unit and task-group-level TADIL integrity.

• snapshot:  A 15 minute test (per radio – once the link is established) to determine if Link 16, 11, or 4A hardware is operating properly.  This test thoroughly checks the TADIL signal path from antenna to data terminal.  Don’t underestimate the value of this test.   A snapshot pays big dividends for the tested unit.  Experience has shown that the vast majority (better than 80 percent) of the TADIL A/C data link problems experienced underway could have been diagnosed/fixed prior to deployment by conducting a simple 15 minute snapshot.   Scheduling a snapshot normally requires only a day or two notice.  Unit personnel required for a snapshot are a link management team or other operators and technical support members.  Results of this test are provided real-time to the unit.  A written service summary report is sent to the test unit only if requested prior to the snapshot within 3 to 4 days following the event.
  
  
• quicklook:   A 2 to 4 hour test consisting of a thorough hardware check (snapshot) and a high-level TADIL software validation test.  The software testing portion covers the key TADIL features including: ID conflict resolution, exchange of force ID's, force orders, ASW data exchange, special points, track/information alerts and handovers.  A quicklook is usually performed after a TADIL software upgrade or to troubleshoot suspected software related Link anomalies.  Note: A quicklook does not satisfy a unit's Command Assessment of Readiness and Training (CART) requirements (see longlook below).  Unit personnel required for a quicklook are the Link Management Team, Track Supervisor/TIC, ID Operator, AAWC Operator, SSWC/SSSC Operator, SWC/AWIC, FWC, and AIC/ASTAC.  An informal debriefing is conducted upon completion of the test.
  
  
• Link-11 longlook:  A comprehensive (8 to 12 hour) link readiness analysis comprised of hardware (snapshot) and extensive TADIL software verification tests.  This procedure tests and exercises every functional area and feature of a platform's TDS program and associated equipment, as well as crew datalink knowledge and proficiency.  This test will verify that the proper M-series messages are being translated correctly in accordance with MILSTD-6011 OS-411 Series.  For a longlook, the unit’s entire TADIL team is required (see quicklook above).  It is imperative that the unit’s most experienced operators are manning the consoles for the data recording phase.  This will enable a timely longlook test with smaller, cleaner, and more accurate files for our analysts to validate.  On the second day of the longlook, units are encouraged to use this test as comprehensive link team refresher training and a gauge of their overall link readiness.At comex, we recommend all OCSOT or Condition III stations (dependent upon TDS system) be manned and all weapon interfaces be online.   A longlook is mandatory after a major TADIL program revision, prior to CART II, or once per training cycle in accordance with FXP-3 (CCC-28-SF), Surface Force Training Manual (CNSP/CNSLINST 3502.2C), and Aircraft Carrier Training and Readiness Manual (CNAP/CNALANT INST 3500.20).  longlook testing is most strongly recommended for ISIC/TG pre-deployment work-up and preparatory to Joint Task Force Exercises (JTFEX) to minimize multi-force/unit interoperability issues.  Post longlook feedback in the form of an informal debrief and a service summary report is provided to the tested unit (normally within 3 to 5 weeks).  Units are requested to record/extract their system(s) data during the conduct of the longlook and forward CND/C2P tapes to their respective software development agency upon completion of testing.  During the debrief, the unit commander will have the opportunity to receive candid feedback, both objective (hardware/software) and subjective (personnel/training/procedural), on his unit’s TADIL readiness from a fleet-seasoned, link-experienced and unbiased perspective.  If you desire the ability to effectively manage your unit’s tactical data link, then a longlook is a must.  Additionally, NCTSI is available for follow-up assistance as required/requested.
  
  
• Link-16 longlook:  Link-16 longlook testing is similar to Link-11 testing.  NCTSI will verify that the unit under test can correctly process the basic system information needed to exchange data for link operation. This includes verification og JTIDS Unit (JU) track numbers, Network Participation Group (NPG) number for PPLI and platform status, and that the unit can correctly transmit and receive engagement and system status messages as well as command messages.  Although the Surface Force Training Manual does not yet mandate this test, it is highly recommended by all Link-16 (TADIL-J) units to ensure complete multi-TADIL interoperability.  This test will verify that the proper J-series messages are being translated correctly in accordance with MILSTD-6016 and OS-516 Series.
  NOTE: When conducting JTIDS operations, the unit under test or the NCTSI detachment must obtain approval from the Geographical Area Assignment Coordinator (GAAC). Under normal area operating conditions, three working days are needed to obtain deconfliction from the GAAC.
  
  
• Link-4A Operational/Diagnostic Test:  This test verifies readiness and identifies any Link 4A problems.  Utilizing this resource eliminates the need for live aircraft services which are expensive, limited in availability, and inconsistent in duplicating problems.  During this test, Detachments ONE, TWO, and FIVE are able to simulate up to 10 aircraft, generate reply messages in accordance with parameters preselected by the operator (AIC), display specific numerical data and discrete data reports received, and respond to heading, altitude, and speed change commands received from the control station.   Detachments ONE, TWO, and FIVE do not validate your system.  Validation is conducted by SESEF Range during CSRR.
  
  
• Underway Testing:  This requires the requesting unit to be in the Detachment's ONE, TWO, or FIVE dedicated link and be within HF/UHF range of:
  

  Point Loma (Det ONElocation).

  Norfolk (Det TWO location).

  Yokosuka (Det FIVE location, vicinity of Yokosuka Harbor for UHF testing and generally up to a distance of 300nm for HF testing).

  UHF data frequencies are preferred due to minimal data/transmission loss through propagation effects.  Link 16 operational tests are also available for underway units, as requested.  Contact cognizant detachment in your theater on the detachment voice frequency in accordance with NCTSI Detachments' ONE, TWO, or FIVE OPTASK LINK, or by calling the POC's.
  
  

• Satellite Link-11 Testing: Detachments ONE, TWO, and FIVEare on air to conduct Satellite Link-11 verification with our RT-1107(V)6/WSC-39(V)  transmitter-receiver.  This is a non-certification test designed for operational testing and operator training/proficiency.  Although this test is not mandated, it is essential for optimum task group link interoperability.  NOTE: When requesting SATLINK-11 services, the requesting unit is responsible for timely submission of the satellite access request.  Contact your cognizant NCTSI detachment for questions pertaining to satellite access request format.  For NCTSI Det FIVE units: Prior coordination with CTF-70 may allow units to utilize monthly access that is often reserved for monthly SATLINK TADIL-A testing.
  
  
• Exercise Joint Support:   Detachments' ONE, TWO, FOUR, and FIVE roles in the purple theater are to represent Navy tactical C4I interoperability interests during joint interoperability exercises with significant Navy participation. Roving Sands and ASCIET are examples of  exercises actively supported by Detachment’s ONE and TWO Mobile Link Vehicle (MLV) services providing online analysis of the active data link environment. Detachment FOUR utilizes MULTS in EUCOM theater of operation.  Detachment FIVE often participates in Foal Eagle, as well as Cobra Gold, Ulchi-Focus Lens, and Tandem Thrust.  This service provides feedback to the C4I nodes (e.g., Joint Interface Control Officer (JICO)) to increase data link connectivity and improve link architecture troubleshooting capabilities.  Detachment ONE also supports RIMPAC operations through its unique remote interface telephone system (RITS) capability from Pearl Harbor allowing task group commanders the ability to analyze data link interoperability in a multi-national environment.  Detachments ONE and TWO also support JTFEX’s through their on-site facilities or through RITS ops as required/requested.Most exercises are subject to reimbursement from the office conducting the exerecise.
  
  
• Battle Group Systems Interoperability Testing (BGSIT):  Detachments ONE and TWO actively participate in the CINCPACFLT/CINCLANTFLT BGSIT program providing technical services and link grooms.  The detachments support task group operations through unique data link capabilities allowing task group commanders the ability to analyze data link interoperability in a multi-TADIL environment.
  
  
• System TADIL Interoperability Report (STIR):  is the only publication that describes in detail the potential impact of current differences between Link 11 and Link 16 message implementation (such as occur between Model 4 and Model 5 platforms) and respective translations for the individual units within a deploying task group.  The STIR addresses selected high interest Link-11/16 message sets (M/J/N) that support air, surface, and sub-surface mission areas and identifies the capabilities (unique link implementation) of each platform to transmit and receive the Link-11/16 information most frequently used by operators.  The STIR provides the means for warfare commanders and operators to determine how all task group platforms interact with each other via the different data links.  It also provides an understanding of how Link-16 information, or lack thereof, could effect contact identification and/or engagements.  Detachments ONE, TWO, and FIVE will assist task group commanders in resolving STIR interoperability issues and providing tailored testing/link grooms.  A list of STIRs can be found here.

Additional Services:  

• CCC-17-SF(Link-11 Fast Frequency Change) Support:  Detachment Two also provides CCC-17-SF (Link-11 Fast Frequency Change) support. As directed by COMSECONDFLT and when requested by the appropriate BATGRU commander, NCTSI Detachment 2 acts as the OCE (BATGRU CDR is OSE) and reports the graded results of the event to the unit´s ISIC for inclusion in Battle ´E´ competitive exercises. NCTSI Detachment 2 will also conduct the CCC-17-SF for any requesting unit who desires the event for training, with the results reported to the unit only.
  
  
• TADIL Training and Troubleshooting: Detachment Two provides onboard TADIL training and troubleshooting assistance as requested by a unit, tailored to the individual unit's needs. Examples included instruction in TADILs 'A' and 'J' equipment setup, JNL loading and network selection, crypto loading, and other TADIL theory and operating procedures.
  
  
• TADIL 'A'/'J' Link Exercise Support: Detachment Two provides onboard TADIL 'A'/'J' Link Exercise services on request to support a requesting unit's requirements for training, system validation, or troubleshooting. These events are scheduled when requested by a unit and are tailored to each unit's requirements and objectives. LINEX's can be scheduled and excuted on a 15-minutes notice , not-to-interfere basis with other scheduled events.