Next-Generation EC-37B EW aircraft to replace EC-130 Compass Call in US Air Force.

The United States Air Force has taken delivery of its first EC-37B electronic warfare aircraft, according to an announcement from BAE Systems and L3Harris Technologies on September 12, 2023. The EC-37B is intended to replace the older EC-130 Compass Call. Gen. Mark D. Kelly, head of Air Combat Command, said the aircraft is arriving on schedule and will remain relevant with the introduction of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs) in the coming years.

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 The EC-37B will replace the older EC-130 Compass Call (Picture source: BAE System)

The EC-37B is a next-generation tactical jamming platform based on the Gulfstream G550 business aircraft and adapted from the Navy’s special mission configuration. Tasked with disrupting enemy C3, radar, and navigation systems, the aircraft also provides offensive counterinformation, electronic attack (EA), and Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) support. Awarded to L3 Technologies by the U.S. Air Force in September 2017, the program aims to replace the EC-130H in the tactical EA role. The aircraft is faster, more economical, and capable of higher altitude operations than its predecessor, with a ceiling of 51,000 feet. It is powered by two BR710C4-11 turbofans, each providing 15,385 lb of thrust, and has a maximum takeoff weight of 90,500 lb. The EC-37B can reach speeds of up to 600 mph and has a range of 6,300 miles.

In comparison, the EC-130 has an operational ceiling of 25,000 feet and a speed of 300 knots. The EC-37B hardware is built by BAE Systems, the Gulfstream G550 business jet platform is manufactured in Savannah, Georgia, and modifications are made at L3Harris' factory in Waco, Texas. Its dimensions include a wingspan of 93.5 feet, a length of 96.4 feet, and a height of 25.8 feet. The aircraft is planned to be operated by the Air Combat Command and will be stationed at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona.

The EC-37B is designed for the electronic jamming of radars, electronic systems, and communications. It will also participate in the suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) by disrupting the coordination of enemy sensors and weapons. The aircraft will undergo a combined operational testing and development program, similar to the process for the Boeing F-15EX fighter jet. Testing is facilitated by the use of electronic equipment from retired EC-130s.

General Kelly indicated that the EC-37B will not be made obsolete by the introduction of CCAs, which are autonomous drones intended for electronic warfare missions among others. The EC-37B is expected to work alongside future systems, including the F-35's Block 4, which also has an electronic warfare suite.