BriteCloud decoy for combat aircraft moves closer to US service
A recommendation from the Air National Guard could pave the way for use of the BriteCloud decoy on US F-16s and other fourth-generation combat jets. (Image: Leonardo)
The US Air National Guard (ANG) has issued a ‘fielding recommendation’ for Leonardo’s BriteCloud 218 expendable active decoy, after testing on F-16 aircraft.
According to the company, this means the service, which has conducted testing and live trials with BriteCloud since 2019, is confident that the decoy meets operational requirements, delivering an increased protection capability to fourth-generation fighter aircraft.
The USAF has now designated BriteCloud 218 as AN/ALQ-260(V)1, identifying it as an airborne EW countermeasure.
BriteCloud packages Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) jamming technology into a form factor that can be launched from standard countermeasure dispensers, using its onboard EW capability against radar-guided threats.
Already in service with the UK RAF's Eurofighter Typhoon fleet. BriteCloud is undergoing evaluation for potential US service under the Office of the Secretary of Defense Foreign Comparative Testing (OSD FCT) programme.
The BriteCloud 218 rounds evaluated under FCT are standard-sized rectangular countermeasures compatible with common dispensers including the AN/ALE-47 and can equip other fourth-generation aircraft such as the F-15, F/A-18 and A-10.
More from Air Warfare
-
Aerosonde UAV makes first operational flight from USS Miguel Keith
The Textron UAS is also deployed on three other USN ships.
-
Iran turns to Russia to modernise fighter jet fleet
As Iranian drones equip Russian forces in ever-increasing numbers, Su-35 fighter jets will soon be heading in the opposite direction as Tehran urgently seeks modern air combat capabilities.
-
Electra develops eSTOL pre-production prototype for US Air Force
The Virginia-based aerospace company has received a strategic funding injection of up to $85m to mature its eSTOL technology for the US Air Force.
-
HAWC missile completes flight trials as focus turns to maturing hypersonic technology
Completion of HAWC flight testing means the US has two viable hypersonic missile designs that can be matured into future programmes of record.