One of the key features of the F-35 Lightning II 5th generation aircraft is the ability to act as a real node of a Command and Control system by means of datalinks. The stealth jet is equipped with the Link 16, a widely used TDL (Tactical Data Link) that acts as a sort of “backdoor” allowing the F-35 to communicate with legacy aircraft and perform the function of “enhancers” of previous generation platforms; and the most advanced, and unique to the aircraft, MADL (Multifunction Advanced Data Link).

As explained in a previous post about the F-35, MADL is a secure datalink that allows Lightning II aircraft to communicate among each other or with other platforms using the same technology, like the B-2 bomber and ships equipped with the AEGIS Combat System. MADL increases the capabilities of a formation of F-35s, sharing sensors and data from each aircraft to create greater Situational Awareness, as done by the F-22s in Syria.