Defence leader Raytheon Australia has developed a first-of-its-kind vehicle to provide mobile testing for cutting-edge electronic warfare (EW) technologies.

Developed from Raytheon Australia’s Centre for Joint Integration at Mawson Lakes in collaboration with South Australian company REDARC Defence & Space, the Electronic Warfare Tactical Engagement (EWTE) vehicle will accelerate local innovation and sovereign EW solutions.

The vehicle assists local defence companies, research organisations and universities to test and refine their advanced EW technologies, such as blocking or intercepting enemy signals, while stopping the detection of our own.

Raytheon Australia Managing Director Ohad Katz said creating a world-leading electronic warfare test environment positions the company and its industry partners to play a key role in supporting existing programs and new initiatives, under the AUKUS Pillar II framework.

“We have designed, developed and integrated this capability right here in South Australia at our Centre for Joint Integration – a critical electronic warfare hub for the Australian Defence Force,” Katz said.

“What we have launched showcases the art of the possible through innovation and collaboration with defence industry and provides an opportunity for local industry and universities to be involved in this national initiative, which is a first of its kind for Australia.”

Some of South Australia’s brightest graduate engineers and interns at Raytheon Australia were involved in developing the EWTE vehicle, working alongside the company’s senior engineers to innovate, design and integrate the testing platform.

As a key partner on the project, REDARC Defence & Space developed and installed the vehicle power sub-system and provided critical modifications to support EW equipment and operational needs, according to REDARC Defence & Space Executive General Manager Scott Begbie.

“Our close collaboration with Raytheon Australia, leveraging our expertise in vehicle integration of power and distribution systems, has delivered a robust and reliable mobile power solution,” Begbie said.

“This custom-built system is critical for supporting the EWTE vehicle’s cutting-edge electronic warfare technologies, enhancing Australia’s Defence capabilities and demonstrating the power of sovereign innovation.”

Minister for Defence and Space Industries Stephen Mullighan MP said the South Australian-developed vehicle highlights local innovation and collaboration, and cements South Australia’s position as a centre for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. 

South Australia is home to Raytheon Australia’s Centre for Joint Integration – the company’s largest operation – employing more than 390 staff delivering programs across sea, land, air and space domains.

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