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NATO ships will receive electronic warfare technology to confuse missiles and drones, strengthening defense against modern threats. Here's how the system will work
A new maritime electronic warfare system has been commissioned by NATO countries in Europe. The aim is to protect frigates and other NATO ships with Quiet-Glide technology, capable of deceiving, confusing or distracting enemy weapons and targeting systems.
The contract involves two Israeli defense companies: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. and Elbit Systems.
These companies have been selected to supply the Naval Bait Control and Launch System (DCLS), considered a next-generation solution. The new technology promises to improve the self-protection capabilities of NATO ships in modern combat scenarios.
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New NATO ships: Trainable and stabilized launchers
The companies revealed that the system will feature stabilized and trainable launchers. This allows for rapid and accurate deployment of decoys against missiles and other threats. The equipment will be installed on new European NATO frigates.
According to RAFAEL, the system was developed based on decades of industry experience and a deep understanding of current maritime developments. The company highlighted its commitment to combat-proven solutions that ensure mission success and the protection of allies at sea.
DESEAVER MK-4: Advanced Countermeasure Solution
Elbit’s technical highlight is the DESEAVER MK-4, a countermeasures delivery system designed to counter complex missile attacks. It is part of the company’s integrated electronic warfare suite, enabling enhanced situational awareness and response to multiple threats.
The system allows firing different types of calls from multiple launchers, which helps to counter simultaneous attacks. This capability positions the DESEAVER MK-4 as the fourth generation of “soft kill” missile defense systems, i.e. methods that prevent the missile from hitting without directly destroying it.
Using specific algorithms, the system chooses the most suitable type of bait for each situation. The launch can be done quickly and accurately, increasing the chances of protecting the vessel.
Integration with other systems and countermeasures
One of the advantages of the new system is the possibility of integration with other combat systems present on ships. It also allows the replacement of old fixed launchers with trainable and stabilized equipment, representing a significant advance.
The DCLS will be able to launch both passive and active decoys. Passive decoys are used to mislead enemy sensors, while active decoys emit signals to confuse missile seekers. This combination enhances NATO's response capabilities to complex threats.
RAFAEL has developed a new generation of countermeasures, including RF (radio frequency) and IR (infrared) decoys. Among them are BEAM TRAP, SMOKE TRAP and WIZARD. Recently, a new active decoy was added: C-GEM, designed to deal with the most dangerous anti-ship missiles today.
According to the signed contract, the systems will be delivered over four years. Five vessels are expected to receive the new electronic warfare suite. The companies say that this partnership strengthens NATO's naval protection and represents a breakthrough in missile defense in the maritime environment.
With information from Interesting Engineering.
