BAE, Lockheed contracted to improve F-35 radio countermeasures

Jan. 27 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy this week announced it has awarded contracts of $81.3 million to BAE Systems and $64.1 million to Lockheed Martin for F-35 electronic warfare system upgrades.

BAE Systems received a contract modification Tuesday to produce 1,512 radio frequency countermeasures for Lot 12 of F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft in use by the U.S. Navy, non-U.S. Department of Defense participants and Foreign Military Sales customers.

The integrated electronic combat system provides radio frequency threat awareness and active self-protection jamming capabilities for aircraft against radio frequency air defense systems actively engaging the aircraft in combat.

Lockheed Martin's contract calls for options to procure Digital Channelized Receiver/Techniques Generator and Tuner Insertion program technology to upgrade F-35s with Digital Tuner Insertion Program electronic warfare racks and high efficiency low voltage power supply.

The suite of software and devices provides pilots with real-time battlespace situational awareness and rapid-response capabilities.

These capabilities includes integrated radar warning, targeting support and self-protection capabilities to engage, counter, jam or evade threats.

The F-35 is built by Lockheed Martin. Over 2,000 are in use by the United States and the militaries of 14 allied nations.

The two contracts were announced on Tuesday, the day the U.S. Marine Corps' 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing announced the dedication of its inaugural F-35 simulator building at Air Station Miramar, Calif.

The simulator will allow aviators to train and rehearse alongside the Navy and other Marine Corps allies from around the world.