Strengthening Communication in Combat: The Role of Link 16 in Modernizing Marine Corps Operations

Photo By Lance Cpl. Theresa Lizarde | U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Bryant Etherton, left, a forward air controller, and Capt. Remington Mederos, a team lead, both with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, review their collected data during familiarization training with the Link 16 Targeting Deconfliction System at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 28, 2025. The Link 16 Targeting Deconfliction System is a secure digital communication network that enhances real-time data exchange and improves command and control. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Theresa Lizarde)  

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES

11.03.2025

Story by Cpl. Peyton Kahle 

I MEF Information Group

In the current world of continuous technological evolution, precise communication can be the difference between success and failure in combat. The U.S. Marine Corps continues to adapt its technology to ensure that its forces are always one step ahead. The most recent example of this evolution is the integration of the Link 16 system, a secure, multi-user, and jam-resistant communication network. This system plays a pivotal role in reshaping how the Marine Corps integrates aviation and ground operations for mission-critical tasks. 

At the heart of this change is Marine Aircraft Group 39 and 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company. These units play a crucial role in enabling the Marine Corps to validate the capabilities of two essential aircraft—the AH-1Z Viper and the UH-1Y Venom— to send and receive data over Link 16 for the very first time in across the Marine Corps.

For the first time, Marines at MAG-39 have validated their ability to communicate and integrate their operations using Link 16, facilitating seamless coordination between ground forces and aviation assets. This has allowed JTACs from 1st ANGLICO to fine-tune their ability to direct close air support in a dynamic, real-time environment, and refine their skills to increase the precision and effectiveness of air support near friendly forces using digitally aided close air support. 

“The goal of this training was to showcase the capabilities of Marine Aircraft Group 39, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267 and 1st ANGLICO while also conducting mission critical training over Link 16 in preparation for Steel Knight,” said Staff Sgt. Cody Demorest, a joint fires and effect integrator with 1st ANGLICO.  

Utilizing this training, 1st ANGLICO and MAG-39 look to expand this capability into Steel Knight, one of the largest exercises that I Marine Expeditionary Force Marines participate in. By successfully integrating Link 16 into a large-scale exercise, 1st ANGLICO and the Marine Corps can start expanding it into future operations.  

“The integration of Link 16 into our operations is shaping the future of how we conduct joint operations in the Marine Corps,” said Demorest. “It allows us to seamlessly exchange critical information, enabling us to target and engage threats with unmatched precision while ensuring the safety of our forces.” 

By refining and expanding the use of Link 16, the Marine Corps is ensuring that its forces are always connected, always ready, and always able to execute the most complex missions with precision and efficiency. As this technology continues to evolve, the Marines of I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group are shaping the future of warfare—one secure, jam-resistant transmission at a time.

• Date Taken: 11.03.2025
• Date Posted: 11.19.2025 17:42
• Story ID: 551628
• Location: MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, CALIFORNIA, US