USN orders more towed decoys for aircraft
The ALE-50 towed decoy acts as a preferential target for enemy missiles. (Photo: Raytheon)
US Naval Air Systems Command has awarded Raytheon a $22.77 million contract for full-rate production of Lot 15 CD-108B/ALE-50(V) control dispenser and decoy countermeasures in integrated multi-platform launch controllers (IMPLCs).
A total of 37 IMPLCs will be produced for installation on USN F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft.
Work is expected to be completed in July 2024.
The ALE-50 programme is a joint development venture by a USAF, USN and Raytheon integrated product team. The ALE-50 towed decoy acts as a preferential target that lures enemy missiles away by providing a much larger radar cross-section than the aircraft.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Singapore P-8A buy integral to future maritime domain awareness network
Singapore’s acquisition of the Boeing P-8A Poseidon will be part of a maritime domain awareness network that could include unmanned aerial systems.
-
Peru cleared for possible $3.42 billion F-16 Block 70 buy
The potential foreign military sale covers 12 F-16 aircraft as well as related training and equipment support, the DSCA notice said.
-
DSEI 2025: UK’s new Air Chief Marshal outlines nuclear, space and IAMD as three key priorities for RAF
Aiming to field a more integrated, agile force, the military leader said in a keynote speech that focus on these core areas would be increased to help the RAF deter and meet challenges in the new threat landscape.
-
DSEI 2025: The fighter market shift to Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T)
Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) capabilities is set to become a market differentiator for fighter aircraft, allowing 4.5-5th generation platforms to remain relevant to the battlefield.
-
Project Kuiper’s LEO network pioneers Space-as-a-Service
The Kuiper Network enables organizations to buy, rather than build, applications that serve mission needs at mission speed.