Raytheon, a subsidiary of RTX, has announced that it successfully tested its new artificial intelligence technology, the Cognitive Algorithm Deployment System (CADS), which enhances digital radar warning receivers (RWR) for military aircraft. This system analyzes enemy radar signals in real-time, improving threat detection for Air Force missions. Designed for the ALR-69A RWR, CADS will likely be integrated into F-16 Fighting Falcons and EC-130H Compass Call aircraft by 2025. With capabilities to host future upgrades and better identify critical radar threats, the system aims to empower air crews with precise and reliable data during flight operations. Ongoing flight tests will continue while Raytheon prepares for procurement decisions later this year.
Raytheon, a subsidiary of RTX, has made significant strides in integrating artificial intelligence into military technology. After completing several flight tests, the company announced that its new system, the Cognitive Algorithm Deployment System (CADS), is ready for the U.S. Air Force. This innovative technology enhances the digital radar warning receiver (RWR), enabling real-time analysis of enemy radar signals, and is expected to be procured by the Air Force in 2025.
During a recent briefing, Michael Baladjanian, Raytheon’s vice president of electronic warfare systems, revealed that the CADS is designed to work with the ALR-69A radar warning receiver. The company aims to implement this technology on various aircraft, including F-16 Fighting Falcons and EC-130H Compass Call. The CADS boasts advanced machine learning capabilities, allowing pilots to accurately identify and prioritize threats posed by enemy radar signals.
The CADS employs a sophisticated graphics processing unit and AI algorithms developed by Deepwave Digital, which specialize in radio frequency technology. This enhances the RWR’s mission data file, allowing military crews to differentiate between multiple potential threats more effectively. According to Baladjanian, the system provides enhanced situational awareness by filtering out less critical signals and helping air crews focus on the most significant threats.
Following a rigorous testing regime, including six lab tests and five flight tests, Raytheon plans to continue testing throughout 2025 while awaiting a procurement decision from the Air Force. Although Baladjanian did not disclose specific numbers, he assured that Raytheon is prepared to meet the Air Force’s future demands for this cutting-edge technology.
This advancement highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence in modern military operations. As Raytheon continues to refine CADS, it promises to greatly improve the capabilities and safety of U.S. aircrew in increasingly complex combat environments.
What is Raytheon’s AI-enabled radar warning receiver?
Raytheon’s AI-enabled radar warning receiver is a smart system designed for fighter jets and Air Force platforms. It helps pilots detect and understand radar signals from enemy systems. This technology uses artificial intelligence to improve how quickly and accurately it responds to threats.
How does the AI in the radar warning receiver work?
The AI analyzes radar signals in real-time. It learns from past data, making it better at identifying potential dangers. This allows pilots to make better decisions during missions, helping to keep them safer.
What fighters will use this AI-enabled technology?
The AI-enabled radar warning receiver will be added to various fighter jets and other Air Force platforms. This includes some of the latest aircraft that need advanced capabilities to handle modern threats.
Will this new system improve pilot safety?
Yes, the new radar warning receiver is made to enhance pilot safety. By quickly detecting threats and providing clear information, it helps pilots act faster and more effectively during combat.
When can we expect to see this technology in action?
Raytheon is working hard to develop and integrate the AI radar warning receiver. While exact timelines can vary, the goal is to have it operational in the field within the next few years.
