Raytheon completed the first power generation flight test of the air turbine generator on the Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band (NGJ-MB), successfully demonstrating the jammer can generate its own power.
Using a Calspan commercial jet, Raytheon conducted three flight tests to assess the jammer's prime power generator, known as the ram air turbine generator. The Navy will use the test data to help determine the airworthiness of the NGJ-MB to fly on the EA-18G Growler, beginning in the spring (2020).
The generator uses air from the airstream to turn a turbine and create the electric power needed to jam enemy radars and communications. The ram air turbine generator is designed to increase the NGJ-MB’s power, enabling it to jam with higher power and support more sophisticated missions.
“This is the first time the pod generated its own power outside of a lab,” said Ernest Winston, senior manager for Electronic Warfare Systems. “Future tests will verify the power is sufficient to enable NGJ-MB to significantly enhance range, attack multiple targets simultaneously and perform advanced jamming.”