That notice mentioned that the AEDs are supposed to provide additional Radio Frequency Countermeasure (RFCM) capability to the aircraft, adding that the F-35 has already “tested and integrated AED capability, which resulted in a fielding decision,” while the decision for the F/A-18, possibly referring to both the F/A-18-E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler, will be taken in 2027. While the notice does not specify the name of the AED which will be provided by Leonardo, the mention of this specifically being Leonardo UK and the Place of Performance being Luton strongly suggests that the AED being sought is the BriteCloud 218 decoy. BriteCloud is what is known as a “second generation” expendable active decoy, which differs from the first generation decoys, generically called also towed decoys, developed towards the end of the Cold War and reliant on a cable that connects them to the aircraft so they can keep the required distance and also receive data and power for the jamming signal.
Author: Parth Satam
Published at: 2025-07-05 20:49:37
Still want to read the full version? Full article
