Multi-Function Electronic Warfare (MFEW) Syst

The Multi-Function Electronic Warfare (MFEW) program is a key initiative within the Army's Other Procurement budget, specifically under Communications and Electronics Equipment, aimed at enhancing the Army's electronic warfare capabilities. The primary goal of this line item is to procure and field advanced electronic warfare systems that provide tactical commanders with organic, airborne, offensive electronic warfare capabilities. These systems are designed to empower commanders to shape the electromagnetic spectrum to their advantage, thereby improving situational awareness and operational effectiveness in contested environments.

One of the central objectives of the MFEW program is the production and fielding of the Multi-Function Electronic Warfare Air Large (MFEW-AL) system. The MFEW-AL is specifically intended for integration with the Army Combat Aviation Brigade's Gray Eagle Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). By equipping the Gray Eagle UAS with MFEW-AL, the Army aims to provide deep-look, airborne electronic warfare capabilities that extend the reach and effectiveness of tactical commanders. This capability allows for offensive operations in the electromagnetic spectrum, including jamming, deception, and electronic attack, which are critical for modern multi-domain operations.

Recent budgets have supported the procurement of MFEW systems, with funding levels increasing to produce sufficient quantities to support fielding to the first and second units equipped. These investments are justified by the requirement to rapidly deploy advanced electronic warfare solutions to operational units, ensuring that the Army maintains a technological edge in electronic warfare and spectrum operations.

Funding for FY 2026 has been realigned from Budget Activity 2 to Budget Activity 6 to support Agile Portfolio Management. This realignment is intended to streamline procurement processes and enhance the Army's ability to adapt to evolving operational requirements. Agile Portfolio Management allows for more flexible and responsive allocation of resources, ensuring that electronic warfare capabilities can be delivered to the field in a timely manner.

The MFEW program does not currently include advance procurement, initial spares, or detailed unit cost information in the public budget justification, indicating that the focus is on direct procurement and fielding of the systems. The absence of related program elements and MDAP/MAIS codes suggests that MFEW is a standalone effort within the Army's electronic warfare modernization portfolio. The program's emphasis is on delivering operational capability rather than research and development, with procurement quantities and costs aligned to support near-term fielding objectives.

The MFEW line item supports the Army's broader goal of modernizing its electronic warfare forces to counter emerging threats and operate effectively in contested electromagnetic environments. By investing in multi-function, airborne electronic warfare systems, the Army seeks to enhance the survivability, lethality, and agility of its combat formations. The program is a critical component of the Army's strategy to integrate electronic warfare into multi-domain operations and ensure dominance in the electromagnetic spectrum.