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Surveillance, Interception, Coordination: How the Erieye EMB-145H AEW&C Enhances Airborne Detection.
The Erieye EMB-145H AEW&C airborne surveillance system, developed by Saab and mounted on the Brazilian Embraer ERJ-145 platform, plays a central role in Greece’s air defense architecture. In a context where information dominance and rapid decision-making are as critical as technological superiority, this system is a true force multiplier. It eliminates the element of surprise for friendly air forces while significantly enhancing their ability to monitor and intercept threats in real time.
Hellenic Air Force Erieye EMB-145H AEW&C aircraft (Picture source: Saab)
The Erieye EMB-145H is equipped with an AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar operating in the S-band, mounted along the upper fuselage in a lateral configuration. This pulse-Doppler radar provides 300-degree coverage and enables the detection of targets at ranges of up to 450 km, including high-altitude aircraft, small drones, cruise missiles, and surface vessels.
Key system functions include airspace surveillance, target detection and prioritization, and maritime monitoring via a suite of onboard sensors. The system also features an Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) interrogator and electronic support measures (ESM), enhancing target recognition and classification capabilities.
One of the Erieye EMB-145H’s critical components is its embedded command and control (C2) system. It offers full mission planning, air traffic control support, reconnaissance functions, and automated interception planning. The C2 suite enables the real-time display of a coherent air and maritime picture by integrating radar and sensor data. Operators can define alert zones, confirm interception points, and assign tasks to units, significantly improving tactical responsiveness.
Interoperability with NATO forces is ensured through Link 11 and Link 16 data links. The Link 16 network provides dynamic real-time visualization of friendly aircraft positions, speeds, altitudes, weapon loadouts, and fuel status. It also enables mission assignments and engagement feedback, enhancing decision-making, reducing reaction time, and improving command-level operational oversight.
In the geopolitical context of the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean, Erieye allows Greece to maintain continuous radar coverage in areas regularly affected by unidentified flights and naval activities. The system supports both deterrence and regional monitoring through persistent surveillance.
A proposed upgrade would increase detection range beyond 550 km, improve radar resolution, enhances detection of low-observable targets such as drones and missiles, and introduce a more intuitive human-machine interface with higher automation.
Saab has also expressed its commitment to cooperating with the Greek defense industry for such an upgrade.
A Follow-on Support Contract (FOS) for the Mission System would ensure sustained system availability.
In conclusion, the modernized Erieye EMB-145H AEW&C system goes beyond the role of an airborne radar platform. It acts as a comprehensive airborne command and coordination node, offering strategic-level situational awareness and operational planning tools. In an increasingly contested airspace environment, shaped by emerging aerial threats, such a system provides a vital element of national sovereignty, resilience, and credible defense posture.