Variable Message Format, abbreviated as "VMF" and documented in MIL-STD-6017, is a
communications protocol
A communication protocol is a system of rules that allows two or more entities of a communications system to transmit information via any kind of variation of a physical quantity. The protocol defines the rules, syntax, semantics and synchro ...
used in communicating
tactical military information. A message formatted using VMF can be sent via many communication methods. As it does not define the method, it is not a
Tactical Data Link
A tactical data link (TDL) uses a data link standard in order to provide communication via radio waves or cable used by NATO nations. All military C3 systems use standardized TDL to transmit, relay and receive tactical data.
Multi-TDL networ ...
(TDL).
Restriction
The standard is designated distribution class C, meaning that it may only be distributed to federal employees and contractors. Contractors may obtain a copy from their government
POC.
However, the standard for the header is openly available.
Format
The VMF application header is defined by MIL-STD-2045-47001. The VMF message body consists of "K" Series messages.
See also
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MIL-STD-6011 (TADIL-A)
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Link 4 (TADIL-C)
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TADIL-J TADIL-J refers to the system of standardized J-series messages
A message is a discrete unit of communication intended by the source for consumption by some recipient or group of recipients. A message may be delivered by various means, includ ...
*
JTIDS
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Link 1
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Link 11 - (Link 11B)
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Link 16
Link 16 is a military tactical data link network used by NATO and nations allowed by the MIDS International Program Office (IPO). Its specification is part of the family of Tactical Data Links.
With Link 16, military aircraft as well as sh ...
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Link 22
Link 22 is a secure digital radio link in the HF and UHF bands, primarily used by military forces as a tactical data link.
History
During the late 1980s, NATO, agreeing on the need to improve the performance of Link 11, produced a mission need ...
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MIDS
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ACARS
In aviation, ACARS (; an acronym for Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System) is a digital datalink system for transmission of short messages between aircraft and ground stations via airband radio or satellite. The protocol was d ...
External links
MIL-STD-2045/47001C
References
Military communications
Military installations of NATO
NATO
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