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BAE SYSTEMS Provides Advanced Digital EW System For F/A-22 Raptor NASHUA, N.H. --(Business Wire)-- July 12, 2004 -- BAE Systems digital electronic warfare receiver technology has been selected by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics as the baseline EW system for future production lots of the U.S. Air Force's F/A-22 Raptor."The advanced digital receiver is capable of converting radio frequency signals to digital information much earlier in the signal chain than previously possible," said Bruce Thibodeau, BAE Systems engineering manager. "At the core of digital EW are breakthroughs in high-speed analog-to-digital converter technology and advanced algorithms. These allow inexpensive, digital receiver modules to perform functions that previously required a greater number of more costly microwave modules." "The digital technology is expected to save more than $200 million on the Air Force's F/A-22 production program," Thibodeau added. In addition to reducing cost, the digital receiver also reduces weight and power, and improves logistics supportability. BAE Systems Information & Electronic Warfare Systems (IEWS) in Nashua, N.H., began the digital EW initiative in 1999 to help reduce the overall cost of the F/A-22 program. The program was subsequently funded through multiple contracts from the Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA), the Commercial Operations and Support Savings Initiative (COSSI), Lockheed Martin's Advanced Technology Support Program (ATSP), and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, with support from the F/A-22 Special Programs Office. The digital EW receiver will initially be installed on the Lot 5 production of the F/A-22, involving two dozen aircraft. That production lot will be completed by 2007. BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defense and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space. BAE Systems Information & Electronic Warfare Systems is a major producer of aircraft self-protection systems and tactical surveillance and intelligence systems for all branches of the armed forces. To obtain additional information about us, visit "What's News" at: www.iews.na.baesystems.com. |
