Hensoldt Unveils Innovative Jammer to Combat Emerging Threats
Sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT has made a significant technological breakthrough in the evolution of methods to manage the electromagnetic spectrum. By merging artificial intelligence, digitization, Active Electronically Scanning Array (AESA), and 3D printing innovations, HENSOLDT has introduced a multi-functional jamming device (‘jammer’) referred to as ‘Kalaetron Attack’. This system is capable of actively disrupting adversary radars across an extensive frequency range and can also function passively as a reconnaissance sensor. ‘Kalaetron Attack’ is showcased at this year’s AOC Europe event in Liverpool, UK.
“The latest air defense and combat aircraft radars operate across a very broad frequency spectrum or switch between specific frequencies in a split second, rendering them extremely challenging to neutralize,” states Celia Pelaz, Chief Strategy Officer and head of the Spectrum Dominance division at HENSOLDT. “By integrating the latest advancements, we have successfully optimized the transmitted power in a deliberate manner while controlling the electromagnetic spectrum using a single receive channel. This makes ‘Kalaetron Attack’ ideally suited for both aircraft self-defense and the function of an escort jammer.”
Key components of the system include a fully-digitized, wideband sensor and effector, an entirely polarizable, electronically controllable jammer, and a compact design of the electronic components achievable only through metallic 3D printing. This advancement has enabled the integration of the AESA jammer into a relatively compact pod system that can be easily incorporated into aerial platforms, as well as scaled for naval and terrestrial applications. The forthcoming phase of development involves fitting it into an aircraft to validate the already exceptional laboratory outcomes in realistic flight assessments.
‘Kalaetron Attack’ is part of HENSOLDT’s comprehensive digital ‘Kalaetron’ product suite. It can be utilized in various configurations across different platforms for self-protection, electronic support measures (ESM), and signal intelligence operations, tailored to customer specifications. HENSOLDT has been a formidable player in the spectrum dominance arena for decades, developing COMINT and ELINT sensors for NATO and allied forces, and incorporating them into electronic warfare systems for the Air Force, Army, and Navy.
