New systems add functionality to the F-35
AN/ASQ-239 and AN/ASQ-242 systems will be installed on the multi-role F-35 fighter.
BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman are collaborating to install communications, navigation and EW systems on the F-35 Lightning II multi-role fighter.
Under an agreement between the three companies, they will integrate the AN/ASQ-242 Integrated Communications, Navigation and Identification (ICNI) system from Northrop Grumman and the and the AN/ASQ-239 EW countermeasures system from BAE Systems.
“This arrangement allows us to collectively provide enhanced capabilities without compromising the size, weight or power of the aircraft,” said Howard Lurie, vice president, F-35 programs, Northrop Grumman.
The ICNI system is based on software-defined radio technology, providing F-35 pilots with more than 27 fully integrated operational functions such as IFF, automatic acquisition of fly-to points, and various voice and data communications such as the Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL) waveform.
AN/ASQ-239 is an EW suite that provides fully integrated radar warning, targeting support, and self-protection to detect and defeat threats and enable the F-35 to reach well-defended targets.
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