L3Harris Technologies won a contract from the U.S. Navy to continue developing advanced systems to modernize electronic warfare (EW) capabilities on F/A-18 aircraft, enhancing pilot protection against emerging and future threats.

L3Harris will develop a next-generation EW system under the $80 million contract for the Navy’s F/A-18 fleet. It is one of two companies down-selected for the initial prototype contract. The final decision for follow-on development and production contracts is expected in 2026.

“L3Harris is developing the advanced EW system to drive mission success and ensure naval aviators are protected for years to come,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris.

“This award builds upon decades of delivering EW systems to the Navy, and we are excited that our technology is protecting pilots in dangerous situations while allowing them to dominate potential adversaries,” he added.

The advanced L3Harris system will feature an integrated electronic support measure and electronic attack system, providing prompt threat detection across all relevant radio frequency bands. With a modular open systems approach and open mission systems compliant design, this innovation allows crews to easily insert new and upgraded technology, saving time and reducing costs.

L3Harris has been providing innovative EW capabilities for F/A-18s for more than two decades. The company has also been providing these capabilities for more than 60 years to the U.S. Air Force and to other allied air services around the world.

L3Harris Technologies is the Trusted Disruptor for the global aerospace and defense industry. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our more than 50,000 employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains.