Saab’s Arexis: advanced electronic warfare system for fighter aircraft

By Defence Industry Europe

The Arexis Electronic Warfare (EW) system developed by Swedish defence company Saab is designed to enhance the situational awareness and survivability of fighter pilots. The system addresses the challenge of operating in complex electromagnetic environments, which have become an essential aspect of modern aerial combat.

 

Arexis is specifically designed to operate within the electromagnetic spectrum, a critical domain where control over signals, communication frequencies, and electronic countermeasures can determine mission success. Saab states that Arexis uses advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and gallium nitride antenna technology to detect, identify, and counter various electronic threats.

According to Saab, Arexis continuously monitors and analyses the electromagnetic spectrum to detect potential threats such as enemy radar systems and missile guidance signals. The system is designed to provide rapid and precise threat detection, allowing pilots to respond promptly and effectively.

 

 

The system’s capabilities go beyond detection, as Arexis is equipped with jamming techniques to interfere with enemy radar, aiming to render their targeting systems ineffective. Additionally, it can generate electronic decoys and false signals to mislead adversaries, creating opportunities for tactical manoeuvres and buying time for the pilot.

Former Gripen pilot and Saab advisor Jussi Halmetoja highlighted the system’s importance in modern combat environments: “In a contested environment, knowing what’s happening around you is crucial. Arexis provides that edge, allowing pilots to see first, understand first, and act first.”

Arexis also features escort jamming capabilities, which Saab states are designed to enable pilots to penetrate heavily defended airspace. The system’s suppression functions actively disrupt and deceive adversarial electronic systems, supporting mission execution even when operating within the range of enemy air defences.

 

 

The AI-driven components of Arexis aim to reduce the workload on pilots by automatically analysing the electromagnetic environment, identifying potential threats, and deploying countermeasures as required. Saab states that this capability allows pilots to maintain focus on their primary mission while ensuring continuous protection.

According to Saab, Arexis is designed to address the evolving threat landscape by providing fighter pilots with tools to dominate the electromagnetic spectrum. The system is presented as an essential asset in maintaining air superiority against increasingly sophisticated electronic threats.

 

Source: Saab.

 

Tags:

Related news & articles

Latest news

Featured