DDS is a publish-subscribe communications software technology that can improve the flexibility and scalability of networks in defence applications. It facilitates the transfer of information between publishers – producers and senders of data – to subscribers, or those who consume and read data. This can be carried out regardless of whether they are using different operating platforms or systems, and without the need to connect to a central message server or broker. It can be referred to as a peer to peer communication method.

DDS creates a common backbone communication method for every asset type to exchange data. Connections can be made between a wide range of devices in defence applications, including air to air, air to ground, personnel to vehicle, vehicle to vehicle, personnel to personnel and many more.