BAE Systems has worked closely with Lockheed Martin on the development of advanced electronic-warfare (EW) technology, notably the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) for the U. S. Air Force. Built for the B1-B bomber, the LRASM (see figure) demonstrates advanced long-range sensor and targeting technologies.
BAE Systems achieved Early Operational Capability (EOC) with the weapons system by having the U. S. Air Force accept delivery of production LRASM units following BAE’s successful simulation, integration, and flight tests with the B1-B bomber. The LRASM has been created to detect and engage protected ships in all weather conditions, relying on external intelligence and navigation data.
The Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) uses advanced EW sensor technology to achieve long-distance detection capabilities for the U.S. Air Force. (Courtesy of BAE Systems)
“We’re quickly delivering critical capabilities to warfighters to meet their urgent operational needs,” said Bruce Konigsberg, Radio Frequency (RF) Sensors product area director at BAE Systems. “Our sensor systems provide U.S. warfighters with a strike capability that lets them engage protected, high-value maritime targets from safe distances. The missile provides a critical advantage to U.S. warfighters.” The program demonstrates the company’s ability to apply its world-class EW technology to small platforms.
The LRASM incorporates EW, signal processing, and targeting technologies for its long-range detection capabilities. BAE is working closely with Lockheed Martin to further advance the LRASM technology: The two companies recently signed a contract for the production of more than 50 additional sensors and are working to achieve EOC on the U.S. Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet in 2019.
