RTX has made a significant advancement in defense technology with the introduction of its first aircraft radar warning receiver (RWR) enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) capabilities. This innovative system harnesses the power of the company’s Cognitive Algorithm Deployment System (CADS), facilitating the incorporation of AI/ML models into existing legacy RWR platforms.
The CADS represents a sophisticated combination of next-generation Embedded Graphics Processing Units and Deepwave’s computing stack, which work together to elevate threat processing capabilities to the sensor level. This integration empowers the RWR to employ cognitive techniques for superior detection, classification, and prioritization of potential threats. According to RTX, the enhanced RWR will significantly bolster aircrew survivability while promoting the swift and cost-effective deployment of advanced AI and ML technologies across military operations.
Recently, the AI/ML-augmented RWR underwent successful flight testing aboard an F-16 test aircraft, marking a notable milestone in its development. RTX touts the improved RWR as a game changer in comparison to traditional systems, particularly with respect to situational awareness. The new receiver is capable of real-time analysis of a greater volume of emissions, enhancing its ability to accurately classify various threats.
Furthermore, the introduction of AI/ML functionalities fortifies the RWR’s resistance to countermeasures such as spoofing, which is critical for ensuring reliability in high-threat combat environments. When deployed on fighter aircraft, this technology is poised to significantly reduce pilot workload by effectively filtering nearby threats and providing more actionable intelligence.
Bryan Rosselli, president of Advanced Products and Solutions at Raytheon, highlighted the extensive advantages that AI can bring to defense systems. He noted that the recent CADS test exemplifies how commercially available products, combined with sophisticated algorithms and cognitive strategies, enable the United States and its allies to stay ahead of emerging threats. Rosselli emphasized that CADS’ rapid data processing capabilities and its ability to execute third-party algorithms for threat prioritization with minimal latency will greatly enhance the safety and effectiveness of military personnel.
The newly developed RWR is specifically tailored for integration into fourth-generation aircraft, including the F-15 and F-16 fighter jets, indicating a substantial leap forward in military avionics technology. The incorporation of AI and ML into these systems represents a forward-thinking approach to ensuring air superiority and operational effectiveness in increasingly complex and challenging combat scenarios.
