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Raytheon Enhances F/A-18E/F's Survivability and Electronic Attack Capabilities with Its Advanced Electronic Warfare Prototype.
Raytheon, a division of RTX, has completed the Delta Design Review (DDR) for its Advanced Electronic Warfare (ADVEW) prototype. This system is designed to be integrated into the U.S. Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, to improve the survivability and sustainability of these aircraft in increasingly complex operational environments.
The DDR is designed to be integrated into the U.S. Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. (Picture source: Raytheon)
The ADVEW prototype, intended to replace existing electronic warfare systems on the Super Hornet, represents a significant advancement in electronic attack and support capabilities. This development reflects Raytheon's commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to counter ever-evolving global threats.
Completed ahead of schedule, the Delta Design Review validated the functionality and integration of the Weapons Replaceable Assemblies (WRAs), confirming their ability to meet operational specifications. The success of this review demonstrates that the ADVEW system is well-positioned to provide advanced electronic warfare capabilities critical to the U.S. Navy's operational needs.
Bryan Rosselli, President of the Advanced Products & Solutions division at Raytheon, emphasized the importance of this milestone:
"This achievement reflects our innovative multi-functional approach, integrating electronic support and electronic attack to transform modern electronic warfare systems. Our solution is designed to address the challenges posed by today’s most sophisticated adversaries, ensuring mission success now and into the future."
Raytheon’s development of ADVEW incorporates state-of-the-art digital and model-based engineering tools. This approach streamlines system integration, reduces risks, and accelerates deployment while focusing on cost efficiency and supply chain resilience. The system leverages a common material base and standardized manufacturing processes to ensure scalability and reliability.
Last year, Raytheon secured an $80 million contract to prototype the ADVEW system for the U.S. Navy. With the successful completion of the DDR, the program now moves to the next phase, which includes rigorous testing in government laboratories. These evaluations will validate compliance with Open Mission Systems standards and demonstrate the system’s advanced attributes.
Raytheon, a business unit of RTX, has over a century of experience delivering innovative defense technologies. Its portfolio includes integrated air and missile defense systems, advanced sensors, radars, space systems, and hypersonic technologies. Raytheon continues to play a critical role in equipping the United States and its allies with tools to ensure national sovereignty and security.
Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, RTX employs over 185,000 people worldwide and reported $69 billion in revenue in 2023. With leading divisions, including Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon, the company develops defense systems, aerospace solutions, and next-generation technologies to address the world’s most critical challenges.
This key milestone in the ADVEW program highlights Raytheon’s continued innovation and dedication to supporting the defense needs of the U.S. Navy and allied forces around the globe.