DLP stands for Data Link Pod. The AN/AXQ-14 is a two-way data link weapon control and guidance system for the EGBU-15 and AGM-130 precision-guided weapon systems. It provides a two-way communication between the launching aircraft and the weapon after launch by transmitting steering data from the WSO to the weapon and video imagery from the weapon's electro-optical or infra-red sensor to the WSO's displays.

The system can also be used to transmit and receive near real-time imagery to and from control centers via secure satellite uplinks.

Components

The AN/AXQ-14 data link system uses multiple frequencies within the 1710-1855 MHz band for both video and command links. It consists of three major sub-systems: the aircraft data link pod, the aircraft data link control panel and the weapon data link.

The AN/AXQ-14 data link pod is loaded to the F-15E's SUU-73/A Centerline Pylon (STA.5 ). It is equipped with an electronics unit containing all RF receiving and generating equipment, a de-multiplexer to decode aircraft commands and pod control signals, an encoder, antenna controls, and a mission tape recorder for video data provided by the weapon's infra-red or electro-optical seeker.

A mechanically positionable, rearward looking electronic phased-scanned array ( PSA) antenna tracks the weapon in either automatic or manual mode and a fixed forward-looking horn antenna provides additional antenna coverage.

The aircraft data link control panel is integrated into the F-15E's Rear Cockpit, using the existing displays. It enables the WSO to interface with the weapon's guidance system during a mission. If necessary, the WSO can identify the target and manually control the bomb to the designated impact point.

The weapon data link in the tail section of the EGBU-15 or AGM-130 weapon provides the link between the weapon and the launching aircraft's data link.

Modes of Operation

To reduce the WSO's workload, operation of the PSA antenna is usually done in the automatic (AUTO) mode. In this case the PSA antenna scans for the strongest RF signal and positions itself automatically.

If the WSO selects the manual (MAN) mode, he can manually position the antenna by using his Hand Controller castle switch. Pushing the switch forward moves the antenna towards the aircraft nose at a fixed rate until the switch is released. Pushing the switch aft moves the antenna towards the aircraft tail. The quality of the video received from the weapon is used as an indication of the RF signal strength. The weapon video display provides the WSO with visual reference marks for antenna position.

In addition, the system can be operated in the forward ( FWD) scan mode. In this mode, all commands are transmitted through the pod's fixed forward-looking horn antenna.

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