$493M To Modernize Electronic Warfare Systems in 5th Generation Fighter

The most modern, cutting-edge fighter in the NATO fleet is set to receive a boost to its future warfighting capabilities as BAE systems received a nearly $500 million contract to revamp, upgrade, and "modernize" the electronic warfare (EW) system for the F-35 Lightning II. The changes are necessary, according to the tender, to allow the fighter to "quickly detect and address evolving electromagnetic threats in contested battlespaces." The change is a testament to the fast-paced evolution of aeronautical warfare, the fighter achieving operational status less than a decade ago. The deal will see BAE Systems deliver enhanced core hardware for the current EW mission system, the AN