General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) collaborated with BAE Systems to demonstrate unique electronic warfare (EW) capabilities remotely controlled via a secure, jam-resistant Link 16 network on an MQ-20 Avenger® unmanned aircraft system (UAS).
The Avenger is a jet-powered platform used extensively as a test bed for autonomous UAS development and the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. The demonstration helps accelerate emerging networked electronic attack capabilities for U.S. Air Force Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACPs).
The demonstration took place at GA-ASI’s Desert Horizon flight operations facility in El Mirage, California, and is part of an ongoing series of technology insertion and autonomous flights performed using internal research and development funding to prove important concepts.
“This effort featured novel mission system capabilities and the viability of autonomous payload control on our MQ-20,” said Mike Atwood, Vice President of Advanced Programs at GA-ASI. “We’re identifying key areas for improvement, while sharing investment and reducing risk.”
BAE Systems provided customized mission technology that included EW capabilities, a multi-functional processor (MFP), and a Link 16 terminal. The company successfully tested the integrated solution in its System Integration Lab to identify and jam threats autonomously and under control of an operator. Command, control, and status of the EW system was made possible through software-based, open-mission-system (OMS) compliant message translation hosted on the MFP. A secure Link 16 networking waveform was used to disseminate this information.
“We are working closely with General Atomics to highlight the maturity of autonomous EW mission systems in support of U.S. Air Force objectives,” said Scott Bailie, Director of Advanced Electronic Warfare Solutions at BAE Systems.
“We are combining proven EW technology and secure command and control on a rapid timeline in a small form factor well-suited for CCAs,” he added.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar.
With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas.
BAE Systems, Inc. and its nearly 41,000 people are part of a global defense, aerospace, and security company with approximately 100,000 employees worldwide. BAE Systems delivers products and services for air, land, sea and space, as well as advanced electronics, intelligence, security, and IT solutions and support services.
