Experimental Design- add external + pdf option for va-link component

[christinec-fftc]

What

Currently the va-link component has support for download and external links but they are mutually exclusive. Please add an option to link to pdf with external behavior.

This question was asked in this slack thread and also brought to Platform office hours on 11/19/24.

Purpose

On the 526ez confirmation page, there are links to PDF's for other forms. Once a Veteran leaves a confirmation page, they cannot return to it. Ideally the PDF links would open in a new tab so the Veteran can still review the rest of the confirmation page.

Usage

This new option for links could be used when a download link should open in a new tab.

Behavior

Same behavior for mobile or desktop. The link would have features currently provided by both variants including icons, number of pages, indication for opens in new tab.

Examples

Accessibility

Include any accessibility considerations.

Guidance

What would you want to tell other teams about this component or pattern?

Collaboration Cycle Ticket

department-of-veterans-affairs/va.gov-team#86117

Your team

@department-of-veterans-affairs/dbex-trex

Research (optional)

Include any research you have already conducted, or plan to conduct, on this component or pattern.

Code (optional)

current workaround

Next steps

You may present your work to the Design System Council at an upcoming meeting. If you do not or cannot attend the Design Council Meeting, you can opt to get an asynchronous approval.

Submit requests to join an upcoming Design System Council meeting in #platform-design-system.

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