Airborne SIGINT Enterprise

The Airborne SIGINT Enterprise (ASE) program, managed by the Air Force, is dedicated to advancing Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) capabilities through research, development, testing, and evaluation. The initiative aims to enhance multi-domain, multi-intelligence systems in alignment with the National Defense Strategy and the Next Generation ISR Dominance Flight Plan. It focuses on developing SIGINT components for airborne platforms to maintain decision-making advantages in various military operations, including highly contested environments. The USAF SIGINT Capabilities Working Group (SCWG) guides resource allocation to projects of highest strategic importance.

Within the ASE program, the RC-135 Rivet Joint project focuses on integrating and modifying SIGINT sensors on RC-135 aircraft. This involves design studies, engineering analysis, and non-recurring engineering efforts to ensure compatibility with commercial-off-the-shelf solutions. The project emphasizes innovation activities such as quick-reaction capability prototypes and technology transition planning. These initiatives span different RC-135 variants, including RIVET JOINT, COMBAT SENT, and COBRA BALL programs, reflecting SCWG priorities and contributing to broader ASE goals.

The Common Development project under ASE highlights open architecture concepts for developing new sensor capabilities and addressing emerging needs identified by the SCWG. This includes demonstrating SIGINT capabilities using CI-6 family systems and integrating them with the Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS). The project also supports risk reduction through the Open Architecture Technology Lab (OATL) managed by the Air Force Research Lab. These efforts aim to rapidly acquire enhanced SIGINT combat capabilities for warfighters.

COMPASS BRIGHT is another key component of ASE, focusing on developing SIGINT and MASINT technologies for transition to various platforms like the RC-135 fleet. This program seeks to mature technologies in areas such as Communications Intelligence (COMINT), Electronic Intelligence (ELINT), and Radio Frequency Measurement and Signature Intelligence (MASINT). Projects are selected annually based on their potential impact on warfighter capabilities, emphasizing integrating multi-intelligence capabilities for a comprehensive ISR picture. The program's flexibility allows for out-of-cycle efforts to address urgent needs as determined by the SCWG.