The Next Generation Jammer Low Band, or NGJ-LB, will address threats operating in lower-frequency bands of the electromagnetic spectrum. It is part of a wider Navy effort to augment and ultimately replace the AN/ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System currently used on the Growler.
“This program enhances the ability to counter adversaries operating in lower-frequency bands,” said Chris Aebli, President, Communications & Spectrum Dominance, L3Harris. “We’re moving fast to deliver a system that equips aviators to counter those threats from safer, extended distances.”
The Navy is developing Next Generation Jammer capabilities in separate increments covering different frequency bands. The broader program uses digital software and electronically scanned array technologies to disrupt, deny and degrade enemy air defense and ground communications systems.
NGJ is intended to provide greater power and jamming capability at longer ranges than the legacy system. Its design also allows rapid hardware and software updates to counter evolving threats.
The low-band jammer will be carried externally on the Growler and combines sophisticated jamming capabilities with faster processing. L3Harris said its modular, open-system architecture will simplify maintenance and support upgrades.
NGJ-LB is also intended to operate with joint and allied forces. The company said the design provides room to integrate future technologies.
The low-band system remains in engineering and manufacturing development, while the AN/ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band has entered production. The mid-band system comprises external pods and small hardware and software modifications that allow the Growler to carry, communicate with and employ them.
NGJ-MB achieved Milestone C in 2021, clearing it to enter the production and deployment phase. The third low-rate initial production contract followed in March 2023, and the first production pods reached the fleet in July that year.
The latest L3Harris award is an undefinitized contract modification covering non-recurring tooling, equipment, associated labor and system demonstration test article pods. It also funds further cybersecurity and system security development, along with product, logistics, test and evaluation, and software support for U.S. Naval Air Systems Command.
Testing will continue to support the Navy’s delivery schedule. L3Harris will also continue supporting the AN/ALQ-99, which remains in fleet service during development of the new capability.
