US Approved FMS of F/A-18F and EA-18G Aircraft Training for Australia

29 Juni 2026

RAAF F/A-18F and EA-18G (photo: Aus DoD)

The U.S. Department of State has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia for the purchase of F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft training and related equipment. The estimated total cost is $250 million.   

The Government of Australia has requested to buy the following non-major defense equipment (MDE) items:  F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft classified and unclassified aircrew and maintenance training; protective personnel equipment; U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics support services; classified and unclassified technical and non-technical manuals, books, publications, and training documentation; and other related elements of logistics and program support that will be added to the previously implemented cases.  The original Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case, valued at $18 million ($0 in major defense equipment (MDE)), included F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft aircrew and maintenance training; protective personnel equipment; U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support.  In 2015, the case was amended and added $39 million for a total of $67 million ($0 in MDE) and included F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft aircrew and maintenance training; protective personnel equipment; U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support.  In 2018, the case was amended and added $72 million for a total of $142 million ($0 in MDE) and included F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft classified and unclassified aircrew and maintenance training; protective personnel equipment; U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support.  This amendment caused the case to exceed congressional notification threshold, and it should have been notified to Congress at that time, but the technical error was not discovered until the partner requested an amendment.  This notification is for a combined total of the following non-MDE items:  F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft classified and unclassified aircrew and maintenance training; protective personnel equipment; U.S. Government and contractor technical and logistics support services; classified and unclassified technical and non-technical manuals, books, publications, and training documentation; and other related elements of logistics and program support.  The estimated total cost is $250 million. 

RAAF F/A-18F and EA-18G (photo: Finn Mc Guire)

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States.  Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific.  The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the Western Pacific.  It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability. 

The proposed sale will enhance Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats and increase its interoperability with the U.S. and its allies through comprehensive training.  Australia will have no difficulty absorbing this training into its armed forces. 

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. 

(US State Gov)

Turki Perkenalkan Pesawat Pengacau Sinyal Jarak Jauh Baru

09 Juni 2026

Hava SOJ berbasis pesawat Bombardier Global 6000 (image: Turkish MoD)

Kementerian Pertahanan Nasional Turki (MND) untuk pertama kalinya menunjukkan Hava Stand-Off Jammer (SOJ), dengan pesawat perang elektronik (EW) berbasis jet bisnis Bombardier Global 6000 yang muncul sekilas dalam video resmi yang diposting pada 1 Juni 2026.

Masih dalam kondisi cat dasar pabrik, pesawat yang dikembangkan oleh Turkish Aerospace dan Aselsan untuk dukungan elektronik jarak jauh dan serangan elektronik (EA), ditunjukkan dalam cuplikan video kurang dari satu detik yang melakukan uji coba pra-pengiriman.

Tampak samping pesawat Hava SOJ (image: Voyage2Victory)

Seperti yang dicatat oleh Janes C4ISR & Mission Systems: Air, Hava SOJ dirancang untuk menekan sistem pengawasan pertahanan udara musuh dalam peran penekanan/penghancuran pertahanan udara musuh (SEAD/DEAD).

Platform SOJ akan digunakan oleh Angkatan Udara Turki (TuAF) untuk mengidentifikasi pemancar radar/komunikasi berbasis udara, darat, dan laut musuh dan mengelabui/ mengganggu mereka tanpa memasuki zona ancaman. Dengan menekan radar dan sistem komunikasi pertahanan udara musuh, hal ini memungkinkan pesawat tempur sekutu untuk masuk dan keluar dari wilayah udara musuh dengan menciptakan koridor aman untuk melakukan misi serangan yang ditargetkan.

Interior Hava SOJ (photo: MilliSavunma)

Meskipun detail sistem belum diungkapkan, arsitektur Hava SOJ kemungkinan akan terdiri dari subsistem dukungan elektronik radar dan komunikasi/serangan elektronik, rangkaian alat bantu pertahanan, paket komunikasi dan tautan data taktis, dan subsistem manajemen misi, dengan peralatan misi penting, perangkat lunak, dan algoritma khusus yang disediakan oleh Aselsan.

(Jane's)

RTX's Raytheon Delivers First Next Generation Jammer Shipsets to the Royal Australian Air Force

22 April 2026

Next Generation Jammer technology will enhance country's electronic warfare capabilities (image: Raytheon)

ARLINGTON, Va./PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, has delivered its first Next Generation Jammer (NGJ) pods to the Royal Australian Air Force.

NGJ is a cooperative development and production program with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). It is an airborne electronic attack system containing active electronically scanned arrays that radiate in the mid-band frequency range. By disrupting enemy radars and communication systems, NGJ enables aircrew to remain undetected while airborne, allowing them to execute their missions with greater safety and effectiveness.

"This delivery marks a significant milestone in our collaborative efforts with the U.S. Navy and RAAF on NGJ," said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon. "This advanced technology will greatly enhance RAAF's electronic warfare capabilities, safeguarding vital assets on its aircraft and more effectively neutralizing adversary technologies across a wide range of missions."

Raytheon has been partnering with the U.S. Navy and RAAF since the inception of the NGJ program. This first delivery of shipsets occurred ahead of schedule in September 2025, with future deliveries continuing through 2026. Raytheon is also providing on-site deployment and maintenance support in Australia to help support operational and mission readiness.

(Raytheon)

Growler Australia Terlihat Dilengkapi dengan Next-Generation Jammer-Medium Band (NGJ-MB)

11 Januari 2026

RAAF EA-18G Growler no A46-304 (photo: Mitch Andrews)

Sebuah pesawat Boeing EA-18G Growler Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) yang dilengkapi dengan pod Next-Generation Jammer-Medium Band (NGJ-MB) AN/ALQ-249 baru telah difoto saat beroperasi dari Pangkalan RAAF Williamtown.

Akuisisi sistem NGJ-MB oleh Australia merupakan bagian dari peningkatan yang direncanakan untuk pesawat Growler Australia. Departemen Pertahanan Australia (DoD) berkolaborasi dengan Pentagon AS dan Angkatan Laut AS (USN) dalam pengembangan dua sistem NGJ. AN/ALQ-249 NGJ-MB berfokus pada penargetan ancaman di pita frekuensi menengah spektrum elektromagnetik. Sistem kedua adalah NGJ-Pita Rendah (NGJ-LB).

Raytheon mengatakan NGJ-MB mampu mengacaukan beberapa target secara bersamaan pada jarak yang lebih jauh (photo: Raytheon)

Foto tersebut, yang dipublikasikan di situs web fotografi penerbangan pada Desember 2025, menunjukkan sebuah pesawat RAAF Growler (nomor seri A46-304) yang dilengkapi dengan dua pod NGJ-MB di titik tumpu bawah sayap tengahnya, menggantikan pod Sistem Pengacakan Taktis AN/ALQ-99 yang sudah tua yang biasanya dibawa di posisi tersebut.

Namun, satu pod AN/ALQ-99 yang dikonfigurasi untuk serangan pita rendah tetap terpasang pada titik tumpu tengah di bawah badan pesawat.

Meskipun Departemen Pertahanan Australia tidak menjawab pertanyaan Janes tentang kapan pod tersebut dikirim, seorang juru bicara mengkonfirmasi bahwa departemen tersebut telah “memesan delapan set AN/ALQ-249 NGJ-MB (dua pod per set) untuk RAAF hingga saat ini”.

Konfigurasi umum pod NGJ-MB, dengan ram-air power generator dan dua AESA di setiap ujungnya (image: US Navy)

“Angkatan Laut AS telah mengontrak Raytheon (El Segundo, California), dengan total nilai USD368,3 juta,” tambah juru bicara Departemen Pertahanan.

Pada Mei 2025, Raytheon mengumumkan kontrak produksi lanjutan senilai USD 580 juta dari Angkatan Laut AS untuk pod NGJ-MB tambahan, termasuk pod untuk Angkatan Udara Australia (RAAF). Ini menyusul kontrak produksi awal tingkat rendah senilai USD 590,8 juta yang diberikan kepada Raytheon pada November 2024 yang mencakup empat set untuk pesawat RAAF dan sembilan untuk Angkatan Laut AS, menurut informasi yang diterbitkan oleh Departemen Pertahanan AS.

(Jane's)

Pesawat EA-18G Membantu Melumpuhkan Pertahanan Udara Venezuela Selama Serangan AS

08 Januari 2026

Pesawat EA-18G Growler yang saat ini hanya dioperasikan 2 negara: Amerika dan Australia (photo: Navair)

Satu-satunya platform serangan elektronik udara/electronic attack (EA) militer AS, EA-18G Growler Angkatan Laut AS (USN), adalah bagian dari kekuatan yang membuka jalan bagi serangan AS pada 3 Januari terhadap Venezuela yang menyebabkan penangkapan dan penahanan Presiden Venezuela Nicolás Maduro dan istrinya, menurut Jenderal Dan Caine, ketua Kepala Staf Gabungan.

Growler adalah bagian dari “komponen udara gabungan yang mulai membongkar dan melumpuhkan sistem pertahanan udara di Venezuela, menggunakan senjata untuk memastikan jalur aman helikopter ke area target”, kata Jenderal Caine dalam pernyataan publiknya pada 3 Januari tentang misi militer yang disebut Operasi ‘Absolute Resolve’.

AN/ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System (TJS) (image: FAS)

Berbicara kepada Janes tentang kekuatan Growler, analis pertahanan, serta sumber-sumber industri dan militer, baik yang lama maupun yang sekarang, yang familiar dengan pesawat tersebut, mencatat bahwa EA-18G yang kemungkinan besar digunakan untuk operasi tersebut diluncurkan dari kapal induk USS Gerald R Ford (CVN 78), yang dialihkan ke wilayah tersebut dari Mediterania pada bulan Oktober.

Skuadron Serangan Elektronik Growler (VAQ)-142 ditempatkan di Ford, menurut pejabat Angkatan Laut AS. EA-18G yang berbasis di Ford dilengkapi dengan Sistem Pengacakan Taktis ALQ-99 (TJS), sebuah pod EA udara eksternal yang digunakan terhadap target radar dan komunikasi untuk menekan pertahanan udara terpadu musuh.

(Jane's)

Growlers, Hornets Deploy to Philippines for First Time

04 September 2025

A Royal Australian Air Force EA-18G Growler lands at Clark Air Base, Philippines, during Exercise ALON 2025 (photos: Aus DoD)

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has taken air combat capability to the next level, deploying EA-18G Growlers and F/A-18F Super Hornets to the Philippines for the first time as part of Exercise Alon 2025.

Based at Clark Air Base on Luzon, the combat aircraft and aviators operated alongside Philippine Air Force FA-50PH fighter jets in complex air combat training serials.

Deploying advanced fighter and electronic warfare aircraft into the Philippines required the coordinated effort of more than 120 personnel across the Air Task Group (ATG) in close cooperation with the Philippine Air Force.

The deployment demonstrates Australia’s ability not only to operate its fast jets from home soil, but to project capability at pace into the region.

Commander ATG Wing Commander Sal said the achievement highlighted Australia’s ability to deliver decisive effects abroad.

“Getting the Growlers and the Super Hornets here took a lot of effort from everybody,” Wing Commander Sal said.

“We’ve proven that we can rapidly mobilise, integrate and generate combat air power in an overseas location, and do it well.”

Exercise Alon provided a platform for Australia and the Philippines to strengthen defence ties and build real-world interoperability across multiple domains.

'Australia and the Philippines have long shared a united stance on freedom of manoeuvre and regional security. Working together here reinforces our commitment to that.'

As part of the exercise, RAAF Growlers and Super Hornets flew dissimilar air combat tactics (DACT) and basic flight manoeuvres (BFM) with the Philippine Air Force, while RAAF P-8A Poseidons, KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transports, C-17A Globemasters and C-130J Hercules supported joint maritime, airlift and refuelling missions.

The exercise also enabled the Philippine Air Force to demonstrate its expanding capabilities with A-29B Super Tucanos, T-129 ATAK and AW-109 attack helicopters, Black Hawk utility helicopters and SOKOL multipurpose helicopters.

Commander ATG emphasised the importance of training together to continue to build on these close working relationships.

“Australia and the Philippines have long shared a united stance on freedom of manoeuvre and regional security,” Wing Commander Sal said.

“Working together here reinforces our commitment to that.

“Having Australian and Philippine aircrews working side by side in Philippine skies is more than training, it shows we can operate together, can respond together and we will stand together to protect regional security.”

Exercise Alon ran from August 15 to 29 as a tangible demonstration of Australia’s enduring commitment to the rules-based global order and to the sovereignty and security of its regional partners.

It is the largest overseas military exercise for Australia in 2025 with more than 3600 personnel participating from the ADF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, as well as elements of the Royal Canadian Navy and the United States Marine Corps, Marine Rotation Force – Darwin.

(Aus DoD)

US Government Approved $2.0 Billion Package for Australian F/A-18F and EA-18G

24 Juni 2025

RAAF No. 1 Squadron F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft (photo: AUs DoD)

WASHINGTON - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of F/A-18F and EA-18G Sustainment Support and related equipment for an estimated cost of $2.0 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

The Government of Australia has requested to buy the following equipment and services related to sustainment of its F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft fleet: sixty (60) Global Lightning – Joint Tactical Terminal – Transceivers (JTT-X); forty (40) Advanced Electronic Warfare systems; and twenty-four (24) Next Generation Electronic Attack Units (NGEAU). The following non-MDE items will also be included: AN/PYQ-10C Simple Key Loaders; Inline Network Encryptors; AN/ALE-47 electronic warfare countermeasures systems (common carriage); Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) software; aircraft spares and repair parts; other support equipment; software and hardware updates and development; system configuration upgrades; avionics software support; aircraft armament equipment; Foreign Liaison Officer support; technical data; engineering change proposals; engine component improvements; training and training equipment; training aids, devices, and spares; flight test services; transportation costs; system integration and testing; software development and integration; tools and test equipment; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $2.0 billion.

RAAF No. 6 Squadron EA-18G Growler aircraft (photo: Aus DoD)

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific. The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the Western Pacific. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.

The proposed sale will improve Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing the necessary follow-on sustainment support services for its F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft fleet. It will also improve Australia’s capability to support coalition operations and contribute to mutual security goals in the region. Australia will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and services into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractor will be The Boeing Company, located in Arlington, VA. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.

(DSCA)

Pod EW Turki untuk F-16 Telah Menyelesaikan Pengujian Pengembangan

23 April 2025

Pod EW (electronic warfare/peperangan elektronik) EDPOD baru yang dikembangkan Turki untuk pesawat tempur F-16 (photo ssv: Tubitak Bilgem)

Turki telah memamerkan pod peperangan elektronik (EW) baru untuk pesawat tempur Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon, dan mengumumkan pada 11 April bahwa EDPOD telah menyelesaikan pengujian pengembangannya.

EDPOD EW pod (photos: Tubitak Bilgem)

Menteri Perindustrian dan Teknologi Mehmet Fatih Kacır mengumumkan pengembangan tersebut, dengan mengatakan bahwa pod pendukung elektronik taktis EDPOD yang dikembangkan oleh pusat penelitian nasional TÜBİTAK BİLGEM telah berhasil menyelesaikan semua pengujian terhadap sistem radar sungguhan.

"Sejalan dengan tujuan kami, kami terus mengembangkan infrastruktur penting dan teknologi asli yang dibutuhkan negara kami dan bekerja untuk Turki yang sepenuhnya mandiri dan hebat," kata menteri tersebut.

Sebuah video yang dirilis oleh TÜBİTAK BİLGEM untuk menandai pengembangan tersebut memperlihatkan sebuah F-16 Angkatan Udara Turki membawa pod plug-and-play di titik keras garis tengahnya, dengan rekaman animasi yang memperlihatkan pesawat yang dilengkapi EDPOD menembus wilayah udara musuh sebelum memperoleh dan menghancurkan situs radar berbasis darat dengan rudal antiradiasi yang diluncurkan dari udara.

(Jane's)

Australia's First Deployment of Combat Aircraft to India

04 September 2024

EA-18G Growler aircraft from No 6 Squadron (photo: Wiki)

The Royal Australian Air Force has sent combat aircraft to India in support of a multinational exercise for the first time.

Exercise Tarang Shakti 24 is being held at Air Force Station Jodhpur from 30 August to 13 September 2024.

The Royal Australian Air Force has sent three EA-18G Growler aircraft from No 6 Squadron, and up to 120 personnel.

This is the first time India has conducted Exercise Tarang Shakti, with 11 participating nations and 18 observer nations attending.

Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell said Australia’s participation in Exercise Tarang Shakti demonstrated a commitment to supporting regional partners and fostering international cooperation to address shared security challenges.

“India is a top-tier security partner for Australia, and through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Australia and India, the Government is continuing to prioritise practical and tangible cooperation that directly contributes to Indo-Pacific stability,” Air Marshal Chappell said.

“Participation in international exercises such as Tarang Shakti 24, showcases our advanced capabilities that ensure rapid response and adaptability to emerging threats and security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

“Exercise Tarang Shakti 24 will provide our aviators with the opportunity to develop interoperability with foreign militaries, develop a mutual understanding of tactical operations, and foster international relations.”

Australia and India have enjoyed increased air defence cooperation in recent years, including hosting Indian Air Force Flankers at Exercise Pitch Black in 2018, 2022, and 2024.

Air Force also conducts a number of training and engagement activities with Indian Navy P-8I Neptune surveillance aircraft.

Australia will continue to support India’s key role in the region by increasing the depth and complexity of our defence cooperation.

(Aus DoD)

KF-21 Borama Dikembangkan dalam Versi Electronic Attack

22 Juni 2024

KF-21 versi Electronic Attack (image: Kim Min-seok)

KF-21 Boramae akan dikembangkan dalam tiga versi

Dilaporkan bahwa pesawat tempur Korea 'KF-21 Boramae' next-generation fighter, yang sedang dikembangkan oleh Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), sedang mempersiapkan pengembangan dalam tiga versi. Ketika semua versi yang direncanakan selesai, pengembangan berbagai turunannya diharapkan akan membuka kemungkinan ekspor pesawat tempur Boramae dan memperkuat kekuatan Angkatan Udara melalui produksi massal tambahan. Namun, karena pembangunan masih dalam tahap awal, diperkirakan akan memakan waktu lama untuk mengalokasikan anggaran dan benar-benar melaksanakannya.

Versi pertama adalah KF-21 EA (Electronic Attack). Ini adalah pesawat tempur peperangan elektronik dengan peran yang mirip dengan Boeing EA-18G Growler milik Angkatan Laut AS. Misi inti KF-21 EA adalah Escort Jammer. Pesawat ini menemani skuadron penyerang sahabat yang melakukan serangan udara terhadap lawan atau negara-negara musuh dan kemudian mencegat radar permukaan-ke-udara, rudal, dan pesawat musuh dengan mengganggu gelombang radio sehingga pesawat sekutu dapat menjalankan misi mereka dengan aman. Ini mengganggu pendeteksian. Selain itu, dilengkapi dengan rudal anti-radiasi seperti AARGM-ER (AARGM Extended Range) dan digunakan untuk misi Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) untuk menekan rudal permukaan-ke-udara musuh.

KF-21 EA saat ini sedang melakukan penelitian dasar di Agency for Defense Development. ADD sedang meneliti modifikasi berikut untuk mengembangkan KF-21EA. Pertama, KF-21B dua kursi dimodifikasi untuk mengubah kursi belakang menjadi kursi operator peperangan elektronik, dan total tiga peralatan serangan elektronik (EA) dan dua peralatan pengumpulan intelijen elektronik (ESM) dipasang di KF-21. Diantaranya, tiga peralatan EA terdiri dari dua peralatan peperangan elektronik frekuensi tinggi dan satu peralatan peperangan elektronik frekuensi rendah, dan dapat melakukan serangan elektronik di hampir semua frekuensi yang dimiliki musuh.

Dua perangkat ESM dipasang di ujung sayap KF-21 EA. Mereka menganalisis gelombang radio di sekitarnya untuk mengumpulkan informasi tentang jenis dan jarak ancaman radar musuh dan kemudian melakukan serangan langsung atau elektronik untuk melindungi pesawat sahabat.

Terakhir, untuk memasang rudal ARM dan pod peperangan elektronik EA, konfigurasi dudukan senjata KF-21 saat ini akan dimodifikasi untuk mengubah susunan dan struktur sehingga pod peperangan elektronik, rudal ARM, dan rudal udara-ke-udara dapat dipasang,  pertahanan diri dapat dipasang secara bersamaan.

Versi kedua, 'KF-21 EX', adalah versi peningkatan kinerja dari KF-21, yang dulu disebut 'KF-21 Block 3'. Versi ketiga, 'KF-21 SA', merupakan versi ekspor. Ini adalah versi ekspor KF-21 yang memenuhi persyaratan negara mana pun yang sedang melakukan negosiasi ekspor.

See full article BizHankook 

$600 million Contract to Sustain and Upgrade the RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler

08 Januari 2024

RAAF EA-18G Growler (photo: Aus DoD)

$600 Million Contract Secures Local Jobs and Keeps Australians Safe

More than 350 local Queensland jobs will be secured under a new  fleets for the Royal Australian Air Force.

The five-year contract extension, awarded to Boeing Defence Australia, will see support for the Super Hornet and Growler programs continue until 2030, ensuring the long-term retention of a highly skilled expert workforce at RAAF Base Amberley.

Australians working in the Defence industry will oversee the engineering, maintenance and project management for the sustainment and upgrade of the fleets.

The Albanese Government is firmly committed to supporting Australia’s Defence industry and workforce. Importantly, more than 90 per cent of the contract value will be spent in Australia, and primarily in south-east Queensland.

The Air Combat and Electronic Attack Sustainment Contract with Boeing Defence Australia commenced on 1 July 2016 for an initial period of 5 years. This is the second contract extension, taking the overall contract value to $1.2 billion.

The contract extension comes as the EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack capability reaches final operational capability.

Operated by No. 6 Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley, the Airborne Electronic Attack capability is comprised of 12 EA-18G Growler aircraft, the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System and the AGM-88 series of anti-radiation missiles.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“The Albanese Government knows the most valuable Defence asset we have are our people. That’s why we’re investing in over 350 highly skilled local jobs and delivering on our commitment to ensure Australia has a robust Defence industry.

“In a time of escalating global tensions, maintaining top-tier aircraft and a highly skilled local workforce is paramount. This contract extension fortifies our preparedness for any potential challenges.

“A strong Defence industry is also crucial to protecting Australians and their interests, as well as contributing to regional stability.

“I commend Boeing Defence Australia and all Defence industry partners involved with the maintenance and sustainment of the Super Hornet and Growler fleets.”

(Aus DoD)

Raytheon to Provide for First Next Gen Jammer Pods for Australia

06 April 2023

AN/ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band (NGJ-MB) (photo : Navair)

Raytheon Co., El Segundo, California, is awarded a $650,433,839 fixed-price incentive (firm target) and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the production and delivery of low rate initial production (LRIP) Lot III Next Generation Jammer (NGJ) Mid-Band (MB), to include 15 NGJ-MB LRIP ship sets (2 pods per ship set), 11 for the Navy and four for the government of Australia, as well as to provide associated spares, support equipment, non-recurring engineering and associated data. 

Work will be performed in Forest, Mississippi (50%); Dallas, Texas (37%); labor surplus area El Segundo, California (10%); and Andover, Massachusetts (3%), and is expected to be completed in April 2024. Fiscal 2023 aircraft procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $461,655,033; fiscal 2022 aircraft procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $6,352,655; and foreign cooperative project funds in the amount of $182,426,151 will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. 

This contract was not competitively procured pursuant to 10 U.S. Code 2304(c)(1). The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity (N0001923C0037).

(US DoD)

Pesawat Growler Pengganti Dikirim ke RAAF

21 Maret 2023

Sebuah pesawat RAAF EA-18G berangkat dari Nellis AFB selama Latihan Red Flag 2023 di bulan Januari (photo : ADF)

Sebuah Boeing EA-18G Growler baru telah dikirimkan ke RAAF Amberley, meningkatkan ketersediaan dan mengembalikan armada pesawat serang elektronik RAAF menjadi lengkap.

Pesawat tersebut diperoleh sebagai pesawat untuk menggantikan satu pesawat yang rusak parah dan kemudian dihapuskan dalam kecelakaan lepas landas di Nellis AFB pada Januari 2018. Rencana akuisisi pesawat pengganti diumumkan pada September 2021.

Proyek EA-18G Growler telah menjadi kesuksesan luar biasa bagi RAAF dan Departemen Pertahanan secara lebih luas mengingat kecanggihan sistem dan tantangan yang terkait dengan integrasi cepatnya ke dalam struktur pasukan. Growler RAAF pertama, A46-301, diluncurkan di fasilitas Boeing St Louis pada Juli 2015. Dua pesawat EA-18G pertama RAAF membuat debut publik mereka di Avalon Airshow 2017, dan semua 12 telah dikirimkan pada pertengahan 2017.

Growler mencapai kemampuan operasional awal (IOC) dengan RAAF pada April 2019, dan kemampuan operasional penuh (FOC) diharapkan dapat dicapai dengan pengiriman rangkaian pelatihan elektronik baru yang sedang dikembangkan sebagai bagian dari Proyek AIR 5439 Fase 6 Program Growler tingkat lanjut.

Fase 6 juga akan mencakup pengembangan kooperatif sistem AN/ALQ-249(V)1/2/3 Next-Generation Jammer (NGJ) dengan Angkatan Laut AS, penyempurnaan komputer inti pesawat, tampilan kokpit, dan peningkatan lainnya di paralel dengan program Growler Block II Angkatan Laut AS, dan akuisisi Northrop Grumman AGM-88E2 Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM) dan AGM-88G AARGM-ER yang baru.

Australia telah mendapatkan persetujuan untuk mengakuisisi AARGM-ER canggih oleh Departemen Luar Negeri AS pada 27 Februari 2023. AARGM-ER menampilkan badan pesawat pengangkat baru dan motor baru untuk hampir menggandakan jangkauan AGM-88E.

(ADBR)

Australia Upgrades EA-18G Growler Capability

07 Februari 2023

RAAF EA-18G Growler (photo : Aus DoD)

Boosting Australia's national security by investing in stronger electronic attack capability through the advanced Growler

The Albanese Government is delivering vital upgrades to the Royal Australian Airforce’s fleet of electronic aircraft and associated ranges, strengthening the nation’s electronic attack capability.

The Government is upgrading our EA-18G Growler capability through Project AIR 5349 Phase 6 - Advanced Growler, providing the RAAF with critical world leading technology for the future.

The EA-18G Growler is an electronic attack aircraft capable of disrupting, deceiving or denying a broad range of military electronic systems, including radars and communications.

Upgrades include:

o   Cooperative development of the Next-Generation Jammer weapon system with the United States Navy to gradually replace the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System

o   Aircraft modifications including sensor upgrades

o   Anti-radiation missile war stock.

o   New longer-range and more advanced anti-radiation missiles.

o   Upgrades to the electronic warfare training ranges capability

o   Facility upgrades at Amberley near Brisbane and the Delamere Air Training Area near Katherine in the Northern Territory.

The project will ensure commonality with United States Navy aircraft.

World leading Australian radar company CEA Technologies has been awarded a $277 million contract to provide advanced capabilities for Australia’s electronic warfare ranges.

The contract will include a number of fixed and portable emitters to support training exercises and strengthen capability across the joint force.

It is the first contract to be awarded under Phase 6, which has an approved budget of over $2 billion.

(Aus DoD)

HENSOLDT Develops Multifunctional Jammer to Counter New Threats

12 Oktober 2021

HENSOLDT’s ‘Kalaetron Attack’ – to be seen here in a pod version - combines latest technologies to secure control of the electromagnetic spectrum (image : Hensoldt)

Taufkirchen, Germany – Sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT has achieved a far-reaching technological leap in the advancement of technologies to control the electromagnetic spectrum. Combining artificial intelligence, digitisation, Active Electronically Scanning Array (AESA) and 3D printing technologies, HENSOLDT has developed a multi-function jamming system ('jammer') called 'Kalaetron Attack' that can actively jam enemy radars in an extremely wide frequency band, but can also be used passively as a reconnaissance sensor.

"The latest air defence and combat aircraft radars cover an extremely wide frequency bandwidth or jump between certain frequencies in a fraction of a second, making them extremely difficult to neutralise," says Celia Pelaz, chief strategy officer and head of the Spectrum Dominance division at HENSOLDT. "By combining the latest technologies, we have managed to optimise the emitted power in a targeted way while controlling the electromagnetic spectrum with one receive channel. This would make 'Kalaetron Attack' perfectly suited both as an aircraft self-protection system and in the role of an escort jammer."

Core elements of the system are a fully-digitised, broadband sensor and effector, a fully-polarisable, electronically controllable jammer and a condensed design of the electronic components only made possible by metallic 3D printing. This has made it possible to integrate the AESA jammer into a relatively small pod system that can be easily integrated into flying platforms but also scaled for sea and land applications. The next step in development is to fit it into an aircraft in order to confirm the already outstanding laboratory results in realistic flight tests.

‘Kalaetron Attack’ is part of HENSOLDT's all-digital ‘Kalaetron’ product family. It can be deployed in various configurations on diverse platforms for self-protection, ESM and signal intelligence tasks, depending on customer needs. HENSOLDT has been active in the spectrum dominance market for decades. The company has developed COMINT and ELINT sensors for NATO and partner forces and integrates them into EW systems for the Air Force, Army and Navy.

About HENSOLDT

HENSOLDT is a German defence industry champion with a leading market position in Europe and global reach. Headquartered in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company develops sensor solutions for defence and security applications. As a technology leader, HENSOLDT is also continuously expanding its portfolio in the field of cyber and developing new products to combat a wide range of threats based on innovative approaches to data management, robotics and cyber security. With more than 5,600 employees, HENSOLDT achieved a turnover of 1.2 billion euros in 2020. HENSOLDT is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, where it is part of the SDAX share index.

(Hensoldt)

US Government Approved Sale of One EA-18G Growler to Australia

02 Oktober 2021

One loss replacement platform has been approved by the US, RAAF will operate 12 Growler again (photo : Aus DoD)

WASHINGTON - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of EA-18G Growler Aircraft, Related Defense Services, and related equipment for an estimated cost of $125 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

The Government of Australia has requested to buy a United States Navy (USN) EA-18G aircraft. The USN EA-18G aircraft will then be modified into a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) EA-18G aircraft configuration. The sale would include one (1) EA-18G Growler aircraft (Lot 38 or later) and engineering and modification; verification and validation flight test efforts; maintenance and storage; U.S. Government and contractor engineering/technical assistance; related studies and analysis support; and other related elements of programmatic, technical and logistics support. The total estimated value is $125 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific. The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.

This proposed sale will allow Australia to effectively maintain its current force projection capability that enhances interoperability with U.S. forces well into the future and maintain their original primary level of aircraft authorized. This aircraft would replace Australia’s EA-18G A46-311 aircraft lost in an accident at Nellis Air Force Base. Australia currently employs the EA-18G and will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this aircraft and follow-on support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

These aircraft will be provided from U.S. Navy stock. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of the proposed sale will require U.S. Government and contractor personnel to visit Australia on a temporary basis in conjunction with program technical oversight and support requirements, including program and technical reviews.

(DSCA)

Su-27SK of VPAF Equipped with ECM Pods

03 Agustus 2021

Su-27SK no 6002 of the VPAF (photo : photoglap)

Su-27SK No. 6002 of Vietnam People's Air Force flying with two Sorbitsiya countermeasure pods on its wingtips. 

At the moment, the Vietnam People's Air Force operates a number of ECM systems from Russia, Belarus, etc.

Sorbitsiya or Khibiny (L-175V) is Russian aircraft electronic countermeasures (ECM) system. The system is designed for radio direction-finding and probing signal source irradiation allowing it to distort reflected signal parameters. This helps to :

-Delay aircraft detection;

-Mask the true subject against false reflections;

-Cause range finding difficulties, namely in speed and angular positions;

-Degrading Maintenance Mode "on the aisle" when scanning antenna beam radar;

-Increase the time and difficulty of capturing an object during real-time active scanning.

(AnnQuann)(Wiki)

Boeing Dapatkan Kontrak Pemroses Data Super Hornet/Growler untuk AL AS dan RAAF

20 Juni 2021

Super Hornet Block III (image : Boeing)

Boeing telah mendapatkan kontrak dari Angkatan Laut AS untuk pengiriman 116 perangkat jaringan prosesor penargetan terdistribusi/"distributed targeting processor-networked" (DTP-N) Angkatan Laut AS dan RAAF untuk yang akan dipasang pada pesawat tempur F/A-18E/F Super Hornet dan EA-18G Growler pesawat serang elektronik.

Dibuat oleh L3Harris, DTP-N adalah komputer pemrosesan sinyal dan data kinerja tinggi arsitektur terbuka yang membentuk elemen kunci dari jalur peningkatan Super Hornet Block III dan Growler Block II Angkatan Laut AS yang saat ini sedang diluncurkan untuk Angkatan Laut AS. RAAF belum berkomitmen untuk meningkatkan 24 F/A-18F-nya, tetapi "Force Posture Review 2020" menandai peningkatan ke 11 EA-18G agar tetap relevan secara operasional hingga tahun 2040.

Nilai kontraknya adalah US$33,1 juta (A$42,8 juta), sekitar sepertiga dari kontrak tersebut dikatakan dialokasikan untuk Foreign Military Selling (FMS). Berdasarkan total 116 unit DTP-N, ini kira-kira akan sesuai dengan total armada RAAF yang terdiri dari 35 Super Hornet dan Growler, memungkinkan varian dengan FMS tambahan dan biaya lainnya.

Pesawat F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Block III pertama AL AS (photo : Boeing)

RAAF selalu menetapkan bahwa mereka akan mempertahankan kesamaan dengan Super Hornet dan Growler Angkatan Laut AS untuk memaksimalkan kemampuan dan pemeliharaan, tetapi belum memutuskan apakah akan mempertahankan Super Hornet atau menggantinya dengan F-35A tambahan atau tipe lain nanti akhir dekade ini.

Peningkatan Super Hornet Block III dan Growler Block II juga mencakup pemasangan jalur pipa dan dudukan untuk tangki bahan bakar konformal (CFT) pesawat bagian atas – pengembangan yang didanai pada Februari 2018, kabel serat optik untuk mendukung sensor dan senjata generasi baru, dan yang baru Tactical Targeting Networking Technology (TTNT) datalink.

Juga termasuk integrasi AN/ALQ-214 Integrated Defensive Electronic Countermeasures (IDECM) Block IV EW suite, tampilan kokpit layar besar 10 x 19 inci baru, peningkatan radar AESA AN/APG-79, dan peningkatan detail lebih lanjut pada penampang radar pesawat. 

(ADBR)

Testing Decoy Jammer for TNI AU's Su-27

19 Maret 2021

Installment of Talisman Decoy Jammer pod on Su-27 of the TNI AU (all photos : EGI Inovasi)

Lanud Hasanuddin, Makassar, Trial and Testing Talisman Air Defense Systems (Decoy Jammer) from Radar Warning for Sukhoi 27. 

The operating condition of the ADS is monitored during the pre-flight checks as well as directly in the course of the flight.

The in-built test system ensures the walkthrough of the equipment operability, as well as detection and localization of the equipment failure within the accuracy of the block.

Talisman Air Defense System have 2 modes, operation mode “ELECTRONICS STEALTH” and operation mode “FALSE TARGET”. Results trial and test at Makassar very satisfying successfull

(EGI Inovasi)

Vietnam Shows ECM Pod on Su-22 Fitter

19 Maret 2021

Talisman ECM pod on Su-22M4 fighter-bomber of VPAF (photo : WarComisar)

A few weeks ago, the Vietnamese Air Force rarely exposed the Su-22M4 attack aircraft mounted on a new electronic warfare pod BKO "Talisman".

BKO "Talisman" is designed to ensure the protection of aircraft from guided missiles and air defense systems. It's developed and manufactured by Belarusian company "Defense Initiatives (Defin)".

VPAF Su-22M4 (photo : Hoangprs5)

BKO "Talisman" electronic warfare pod is designed to ensure that the fighter is protected from tracking, locking and attack by the ground/surface ship air defense system.

There is no doubt that the BKO "Talisman" will build an "electronic barrier" for the Vietnamese Air Force fighters.

BKO Talisman ECM pod (infograhics : Defin)

The Vietnamese Air Force used to have 53 (now 36 upgraded) Su-22 series attack aircraft, which have been upgraded successively in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus; in addition to strong ground/pair In addition to sea attack capabilities, it can also carry multiple air-to-air missiles for air combat. These air-to-air missiles include R-13, R-60 and R-73.

Vietnam Su-22 series attack The aircraft’s ground/sea weapons include Kh-23/25/29 air-to-surface missiles, Kh-28 anti-radiation missiles, and KH-35 anti-ship missiles. The attack power cannot be ignored.

At present, in addition to the Vietnamese Air Force, there are about 5 countries in the world are still using the Su-22M4 attack aircraft, they are Poland, Syria, Ukraine and Iran.

Su-22 series attack aircraft adopt the aerodynamic layout of nose air intake + variable swept wing, powered by a single engine, and mainly used for ground support, anti-ship and anti-radiation missions.

(DayDayNews)