What ensures that link participants without Link 16 terminals can still receive information?

The correct answer is found in the concept of Link 16 Passive Participants. This refers to participants in the Link 16 network that do not have the capability to transmit information but can receive and process data shared within the network.

Passive participants are integral to maintaining situational awareness as they can access critical real-time information without contributing data back to the network. This capability is essential in scenarios where platforms may not be equipped with advanced Link 16 terminals but still need to receive vital tactical data for operational effectiveness.

In contrast, active participants actively send and receive data on the Link 16 network, contributing to increased information sharing, but they do not cover scenarios involving those who can only listen. Tactical Data Links (TDLs) are broader categories of systems used for data exchange in military operations but do not specify the role of participants. The Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS) is the underlying waveform technology of Link 16 but does not specifically address the reception capabilities of passive participants. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why passive participants are the correct answer in this context.