Joint Counter RCIED Electronic Warfare

The Joint Counter RCIED Electronic Warfare program, identified as Program Element (PE) 0205671F in the Air Force's FY2026 Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, is focused on the development, integration, and sustainment of electronic warfare systems designed to counter radio-controlled improvised explosive devices (RCIEDs). The primary goal of this program is to ensure the continued effectiveness of Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare (CREW) systems, which are critical for the protection of U.S. and allied forces against the evolving threat of RCIEDs in operational environments.

The program funds the research, development, and integration of CREW systems across a range of platforms, including mounted, dismounted, and fixed-site applications. These systems are essential for the self-protection of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, Joint Light Tactical Vehicles, Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams, Tactical Air Control Party Airmen, and Security Forces at Entry Control Points. Integration efforts ensure that CREW technology remains compatible with currently fielded systems and can be rapidly updated to address new and emerging threats.

The sole budget line under this program element is dedicated to the ongoing development and integration of CREW systems into Air Force platforms. Objectives for FY2025 and FY2026 include continued upgrades and software updates to maintain system effectiveness against commercially available and evolving RCIED technologies. The program also supports the integration of these updates into existing vehicle and fixed-site infrastructure, ensuring that Air Force personnel remain protected as adversary tactics and technologies change.

Management and execution of the JCREW Vehicle Integration project are primarily handled by NAVSEA PMS-408 in Washington, DC, under competitively awarded contracts. The program's acquisition strategy emphasizes competition when possible to ensure cost-effectiveness and innovation. Funding supports the Air Force's share of joint research and development efforts, particularly in updating software for fielded CREW systems to address new threat vectors and maintain operational readiness for Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Security Forces, and Tactical Air Control Party Airmen.

No civilian pay expenses are currently allocated within this program element, as such costs are covered under separate budget lines. Funding is strictly focused on technical development, integration, and sustainment activities.

The Joint Counter RCIED Electronic Warfare program is categorized under Budget Activity 7, Operational Systems Development, which includes efforts to upgrade systems that have already been fielded or approved for full-rate production. This classification underscores the program's emphasis on enhancing and sustaining existing capabilities rather than developing new systems from scratch. The program also coordinates with other Air Force and Department of Defense efforts to ensure interoperability and rapid fielding of critical counter-IED technologies.

The objectives of PE 0205671F are to maintain and improve the effectiveness of CREW systems against a dynamic threat landscape, provide timely software and hardware updates, and ensure seamless integration with Air Force and joint platforms. These efforts are vital for force protection and mission success in environments where the use of RCIEDs by adversaries remains a persistent and evolving challenge.