Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL) is a fast switching narrow directional communications data link between stealth aircraft.^[1] It began as a method to coordinate between F-35 (the Joint Strike Fighter), but HQ Air Combat Command wants to expand the capability to coordinate future USAF strike forces of all AF stealth aircraft, including the B-2, F-22, and unmanned systems. MADL is expected to provide needed throughput, latency, frequency-hopping and anti-jamming capability with phased Array Antenna Assemblies (AAAs) that send and receive tightly directed radio signals.^[2] MADL uses the Ku band.^[3]

The Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics directed the Air Force and Navy to integrate MADL among the F-22, F-35 and B-2, to one another and to the rest of network.

As of 2010, the Air Force has canceled upgrade plans for the F-22 to receive MADL citing technology maturity risks.

Critics contend that since Link 16 is the standard by which U.S. and Allied aircraft communicate, upgrades to Link-16 radios should be supported that can provide the same capabilities as MADL while maintaining interoperability.^{[citation needed]}

The MADL could be used beyond a four-ship flight.^[4]

• The F-22 Raptor MADL upgrade was cancelled in 2010^[5]
• The F-35 Lightning II will have MADL built in
• B-2 Spirit
• US Navy surface combatants with Baseline 9 Aegis Combat System can take targeting data from F-35s via MADL.^[6][7]

• Global Information Grid
• Link 16
• Multifunctional Information Distribution System
• Network-centric warfare