EW Enterprise Exploration and Innovation (EW E&I)
Abstract
EW E&I research efforts identify, explore and accelerate the maturation and demonstration of new EW- and EW/Cyber-related technologies. Current EW E&I initiatives research thrusts include Passive Sensor Detection and Defeat (PSDD), Platform Self-Protection (PS-P), RF/Photonic applications, EW Technology Enablers (EW Tech), EW/Cyber Interface (EWCI) and EW Collaboration and Cognizance capabilities. Passive Sensor Detection and Defeat (PSDD): Modern integrated air defense systems (IADS) employ a variety of radar sensing technologies to detect, classify, track, target and engage adversary aircraft. Classic IADS radars are active and emit RF radiation and collect the component of their radiation that reflects off of their targets. Radar Warning Receivers (RWRs) can readily detect the radiation of active radars and pilots can take mitigating measures to avoid potential threats. Platform Self-Protection (PS-P): A wide variety of RF and Electrical Optical (EO) technologies are employed by modern militaries to detect, track, and engage attacking military systems. RF sensor systems including IADS radars, radars on ships, aircraft, ground, and naval vessels, and seekers on ballistic, cruise, air-to-air, surface-to-air missile are used to detect and provide targeting and engagement solutions to counter adversarial military systems. EO systems have been incorporated into missile seekers and are associated with high energy laser engagement systems for the same reasons. To ensure successful U.S. military actions, technologies that protect U.S. platforms and facilities against these new generations of more capable RF and EO detection/targeting/engagement sensors and seekers are essential. This thrust identifies, explores, and accelerates the maturation and demonstration of new non-kinetic approaches and technologies to counter adversarial advanced Radio Frequency (RF) and EO sensor and seeker threats. To begin identifying the most significant developmental opportunities, Joint Electronic Advanced Technology issued a Request for Information (RFI) call in FY 2022. Electromagnetic Warfare Technology Enablers (EW Tech): Significant advances in materials, electronics (including photonics, plasmonics, spintronics, magnetronics, quantum technology, etc.) in the context of RF and communications sciences, optical and laser sciences, and information and computational sciences are enabling new generations of extremely powerful applications in a wide variety of fields. For example, artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) technologies have great relevance in EMSO. They can be used to enhance signal classification accuracy, determine optimal non-kinetic effects through adaptive waveform selection, enhance data fusion of very large datasets, control autonomous systems and make optimal use of dynamic spectrum access capabilities. In order to maintain capability and function of spectrum-dependent systems within the EMOE, U.S. Forces need to be able to rely on AI/ML or cognitive systems to respond as fast or faster than threat cognitive and adaptive systems can decide or maneuver spectrally within the EMOE. EW Cyber Interface (EWCI): The ability to impact system logic through utilizing EW and other RF systems provides powerful new options for EW application. EWCI research efforts identify, explore, and accelerate the maturation and demonstration of new EW/Cyber-related technologies. Significant advances in the application of digital EW have resulted in new generations of threat systems that are challenging the U.S.’s traditional dominance in these areas. As Internet of Things (IoT) technologies become more widely adopted, in particular, for networked sensing systems, the technology space shared by RF and cyber will gain importance. EW E&I efforts address emerging cyber-enabled threat systems and work towards developing new technologies and approaches that will ensure that all relevant avenues of attack, sensing or protection are considered and potentially exploited on behalf U.S. warfighters. EW E&I efforts specifically focus on areas where Service investments are lagging to accelerate the development and transition of multi-Service multi-mission EW technologies. EW E&I thrusts include Passive Sensor Detection and Defeat, Platform Self-Protection, RF/Photonic applications, EW Technology Enablers, EW/Cyber Interface (EWCI), and EW Collaboration and Cognizance capabilities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- e73e6124e3839079e2f3cccaed6ea8dc