Lockheed Martin has announced the successful first trial of a new, US Navy-bound electronic warfare (EW) system that can be mounted or installed on a helicopter.
Called the Advanced Off-Board Electronic Warfare (AOEW) system, the tech can be operated independently or in conjunction with naval warships to detect and neutralize incoming threats, such as anti-ship missiles.
According to the company, the recent trial saw the system demonstrate its ability to engage and deter threats.
Lockheed was also able to quantify system performance while it was installed on a US Navy MH-60R helicopter.
The results of the test are expected to further refine the AOEW system ahead of more demonstrations and planned deliveries next year.
‘A Force Multiplier’
Lockheed Martin described its AOEW as a pod-based EW missile defense system capable of providing enhanced electronic surveillance and attack capabilities.
It “allows the navy to not only see incoming threats, but to respond to them.”
Once deployed, the EW system can work with a ship’s onboard electronic surveillance sensors to detect an incoming missile and evaluate where it is going.
It also leverages an open-system architecture to enable seamless integration of future components and reduce lifecycle costs.
According to company vice president of Spectrum Convergence Deon Viergutz, the tech’s “evolutionary capabilities” include being completely programmable so it can deploy new techniques to address evolving threats.
“The AOEW system is one of the most advanced, complex electronic warfare systems ever developed,” he said. “AOEW is a force multiplier for our sailors that will help them dominate and control the battlespace without ever firing a single shot.”
Apart from the MH-60R, the system can be integrated into the MH-60S Seahawk helicopter.
