Threat Simulator Development

The Threat Simulator Development program is a critical initiative within the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation Management Support framework. This program focuses on the design, fabrication, and integration of Naval Electronic Warfare (EW) threat simulators to enhance testing environments for EW systems and defensive tactics. The primary goal is to develop realistic anti-air and anti-ship weapon system simulators that meet the requirements of various services. It supports the development of advanced EW systems such as the Joint Strike Fighter, EA-18G, Low Band Transmitter, Next Generation Jammer, Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM), and Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM).

The Electronics Warfare Environment Simulation (ECHO) project under this program aims to create simulation facilities that assess the effectiveness of EW in real-world scenarios. It supports Naval Air EW development programs by providing multi-spectral situational awareness and countermeasures. The project is unique within the Department of Defense as it develops Naval anti-air warfare threat assets for Test and Evaluation (T&E). It also establishes an Integrated Air Defense T&E capability at key Navy sites like China Lake, Point Mugu, and Patuxent River.

Another component of this program is the Effectiveness of Naval Electronic Warfare Systems (ENEWS) project. ENEWS focuses on developing simulation assets to evaluate the effectiveness of surface Navy EW systems against anti-ship missile threats. It provides hardware simulators and digital simulations for shipboard and off-board EW systems. ENEWS plays a vital role in supporting various surface Navy programs such as Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP), Advanced Off-Board Electronic Warfare (AOEW), Nulka, and others.

Both ECHO and ENEWS projects are integral to maintaining and advancing the Navy's capabilities in electronic warfare. They ensure that modern EW systems are effectively tested and evaluated in simulated environments that mimic real-world threats. These efforts contribute significantly to enhancing the operational readiness and defense capabilities of naval forces against evolving threats.