Raytheon Unveils Advanced Electronic Warfare Prototype for Navy's F/A-18E/F Aircraft

Raytheon Advances Electronic Warfare for F/A-18E/F

Raytheon, part of RTX, has recently completed a Delta Design Review for its Advanced Electronic Warfare (ADVEW) prototype designed specifically for the U.S. Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. This innovative system is set to enhance the aircraft's survivability and sustainability by replacing outdated electronic warfare components.

Executed ahead of schedule, this review meticulously evaluated the integration and functionality of various weapons replaceable assemblies (WRAs) within the ADVEW system, ensuring that each component aligns with strict performance specifications. The outcomes from this review not only confirm the system's feasibility but also its capacity to deliver critical electronic attack and support measures necessary to counter modern threats.

Bryan Rosselli, president of Advanced Products Solutions at Raytheon, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, "This event is a significant milestone that demonstrates our multi-function approach of integrating electronic support and electronic attack to revolutionize modern electronic warfare systems." He added, “Our solution provides the needed capabilities to defeat the ever-evolving threats of the world's most dangerous adversaries now and well into the future.”

One of the standout features of the ADVEW prototype is Raytheon's integration of digital and model-based systems engineering tools. This strategic approach enhances requirements traceability, simplifies system integration, and reduces risk, thereby allowing for rapid and efficient aircraft integration. Furthermore, this method leverages common materials and manufacturing processes, promoting cost efficiency and minimizing potential disruptions within the supply chain.

In December of the previous year, Raytheon secured an $80 million contract to prototype this advanced electronic warfare system, indicative of the company's strong commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for national defense. The successful completion of the Delta Design Review marks a crucial leap forward in the ADVEW development process, paving the way for government laboratory testing aimed at validating Open Mission Systems compliance. The upcoming phases will involve crucial testing that will solidify the prototype’s advanced system capabilities.

Raytheon, with a legacy spanning over a century, stands as a pivotal provider of defense solutions, diligently working to support the U.S. government and its allies in maintaining their national security.

With a global team of over 185,000 employees, RTX, through its subsidiaries including Collins Aerospace and Pratt Whitney, is committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering, continuously striving to tackle critical challenges faced by global customers. In 2023, they reported impressive sales of $69 billion, underscoring their prominent position within the defense sector.

The ADVEW project is a demonstration of how modern technology can reshape military capabilities, ensuring that the U.S. and its allies are well-prepared to face the complexities of contemporary warfare. With this prototype, Raytheon is setting a strong precedent for the future of defense technology development in the Navy, emphasizing the importance of innovation in protecting national interests.