How is data integrity maintained in Link 16 transmissions?

• A. Cryptographic checks, frame error detection, and cross-verification with network management data.
• B. Encryption alone provides integrity.
• C. Error detection is performed only at the source.
• D. Manual verification after reception.

Answer: (A)

Data integrity in Link 16 is protected through multiple layers that work together in real time. Cryptographic checks provide authentication and ensure that a message hasn’t been tampered with and comes from a legitimate source. Frame error detection catches corruption that occurs during transmission at the link layer, so corrupted frames can be discarded rather than processed. Cross-verification with network management data checks the received information against the current network state, timing, and scheduling, helping to detect replay or spoofed data and maintain overall consistency across the network. Encryption alone doesn’t guarantee integrity, and relying on error checks only at the source or on manual post-reception verification isn’t practical for the rapid, distributed nature of Link 16.