Raytheon, an RTX business, has successfully completed a Delta Design Review of its Advanced Electronic Warfare (ADVEW) prototype for the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet.
According to a press release from RTX, the ADVEW system is being developed as a replacement for the existing electronic warfare components on the aircraft, aimed at improving survivability and long-term sustainability.
The Delta Design Review, executed ahead of schedule, focused on evaluating the weapons replaceable assemblies (WRAs) and the integration of each component to ensure they meet the required specifications. The review confirmed that ADVEW is capable of delivering crucial electronic attack and electronic support capabilities, which are vital for the mission effectiveness of the Super Hornet.
Bryan Rosselli, president of Advanced Products & Solutions at Raytheon, described the review as a milestone achievement, stating, “This event is a significant milestone that demonstrates our multi-function approach of integrating electronic support and electronic attack to revolutionize modern electronic warfare systems. Our solution provides the needed capabilities to defeat the ever-evolving threats of the world’s most dangerous adversaries now and well into the future.”
Raytheon’s use of digital and model-based systems engineering tools in the development of ADVEW enhances requirements traceability, streamlines integration, and mitigates risks, all contributing to a rapid integration process. The development approach also relies on a common material base and streamlined manufacturing processes to reduce costs, minimize supply chain disruptions, and maintain schedule efficiency.
In December of the previous year, Raytheon was awarded an $80 million contract to prototype the system for the U.S. Navy. With the successful completion of the Delta Design Review, ADVEW now moves into the next phase, which will include government-led laboratory testing to validate compliance with Open Mission Systems and demonstrate advanced system features.