Photo: Australia Defence Magazine

The government has announced it has awarded Australian radar company CEA Technologies a $277 million contract to provide advanced capabilities for Australia’s electronic warfare ranges under Project Air 5349 Phase 6 – Advanced Growler.

It is the first contract to be awarded under Project Air 5349 Phase 6 through which the government is delivering vital upgrades to the Royal Australian Air Force’s fleet of EA-18G Growler electronic aircraft and associated ranges.

The contract with CEA Technologies will include a number of fixed and portable emitters to support training exercises and strengthen capability across the joint force.

The EA-18G Growler is an electronic attack aircraft capable of disrupting, deceiving or denying a broad range of military electronic systems, including radars and communications.

Upgrades under Phase 6 will include: cooperative development of the Next-Generation Jammer weapon system with the United States Navy to gradually replace the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System; aircraft modifications including sensor upgrades; anti-radiation missile war stock; new longer-range and more advanced anti-radiation missiles; upgrades to the electronic warfare training ranges capability; and facility upgrades at Amberley near Brisbane and the Delamere Air Training Area near Katherine in the Northern Territory.

The project, which has an approved budget of over $2 billion, will ensure commonality with United States Navy aircraft.

“The Government is working closely with defence industry partners and Australian companies will be involved a much as possible throughout the life of this project,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said.

“I’m proud that this project will continue to develop Australia’s own CEA Technologies, a world leading radar technology company.

“We are delivering leading edge technology the RAAF needs to face an increasingly complex and uncertain strategic environment.”

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