BAE Systems, General Dynamics Submit Final Proposal On U.S. Navy Electronic Warfare System To Defeat Sophisticated Maritime Threats

HUDSON, New Hampshire — BAE Systems and General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems have submitted their final proposal to provide the surface-ship electronic warfare (EW) system for the U.S. Navy’s Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP) Block 2 upgrade competition.

The next-generation SEWIP Block 2 system is designed to defeat increasingly sophisticated maritime threats by intercepting and classifying threat radars, particularly those on anti-ship cruise missiles. The BAE Systems and General Dynamics Sea Lightning team will seamlessly integrate EW open architecture capabilities with the Navy’s latest generation combat direction and management systems.

“Sea Lightning provides the foundation for electronic warfare in the maritime environment,” said Greg Smith, vice president of information dominance systems for BAE Systems. “It was born from the need to better protect Navy surface ships against the evolving cruise missile threat and will provide the Navy the capability they’ve asked for.”

“Our solution leverages the best electronic warfare capabilities of both BAE Systems and General Dynamics,” said Mike Tweed-Kent, vice president and general manager of integrated combat systems for General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. “Our team is prepared to provide the Navy with the best technology upgrades at a lower cost and a shortened execution schedule.”

The SEWIP Block 2 will upgrade the Navy’s AN/SLQ-32(V) electronic support measures system. The AN/SLQ-32(V) provides early warning of enemy threats and initiates decoy engagements to defeat attacks by guided weapons. SEWIP Block 2 will upgrade the system’s receiver, antenna and combat system interface. The Navy is expected to award a contract in 2009.

About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is the premier global defense, security and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. With approximately 105,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems’ sales exceeded £18.5 billion (US $34.4 billion) in 2008.