Electronic Warfare – invisible protection for aircraft
Given the high cost of front line aircraft like Typhoon, Apache and the next generation Tempest platform, it is imperative that such aircraft, and more importantly the aircrew, are protected during operation. As missile systems become ever more sophisticated, effective protection needs to be provided by Electronic Warfare (EW). Always a more shadowy entity than other, more conventional, forms of warfare, EW is based around manipulation of electromagnetic energy, invisible to the naked eye.
From its early origins, EW has emerged from the educated guesswork of World War II into today’s modern Systems. Initially concerned with monitoring and disrupting bomber guidance radio beams, EW systems must now detect, identify and counter multiple electromagnetic emissions simultaneously. The technology involved is, to say the least, challenging. It is also ever changing, making the most of technological advances on an almost daily basis and pushing the boundaries of electronic and signal processing with each new system development.
This lecture will describe the key features of Electronic Warfare, including the threats posed to aircraft and the methods used to support the aircrew to “Help them see, keep them safe”. Drawing on over 30 years’ experience in the development and use of EW equipment, the lecturer will give an insight into this fascinating, often secret world.
Speaker Details:
Professor Fiona M Clark, MA Cantab (Newnham College, Cambridge University) Head of Capability, EW Sensors Leonardo UK Ltd
Fiona gained her Degree and Masters in Mathematics from Cambridge University in 1984 and 1987 respectively. She joined Marconi Defence Systems (now Leonardo), spending many years developing software simulations of Electronic Warfare (EW) equipment and operational environments which were used to optimise EW System performance.
Fiona attended a number of RAF Operational Evaluation trials in the UK and USA, providing technical support to the RAF in optimising EW performance, enhancing the detection and identification of threat systems and subsequent application of effective countermeasures to protect the host platform.
Considered an expert in the field of EW, Fiona continues to be involved in operational analysis of EW sensor performance and has specific skills in post mission analysis and programming of mission libraries.
Fiona been responsible for providing core EW training for all staff joining Leonardo over the past 30 years, as well as supporting external lectures to forces personnel from around the world. Fiona is able to explain complex EW concepts in an accessible way to enlighten experts and enthusiasts alike. She was recently awarded a post of Visiting Professor at the Defence Academy, Cranfield University.
Fiona now heads the Capability Team of Leonardo UK Ltd with responsibility for EW Sensors, setting the future direction for research and development of sensor technologies, and allowing her to continue to influence the operational use and capability of this equipment.
Recorded: Thursday 10 October 2022
