Italian company Leonardo introduced its latest electronic warfare system (EW) called Brightstorm. A compact device that can be installed on airplanes, drones, and missiles is designed to suppress enemy radars or create false targets to confuse the enemy.
The system can be integrated into drones like “loyal wingman” creating the illusion of a whole system of fighters to protect real combat vehicles. In addition, Brightstorm can be used as a false target by releasing shooting dipole reflectors or infrared traps.
Like the previous version of the system, Brightstorm works on the basis of the “interference setting” technology, absorbing the incoming radar signal, simulating its frequency, and sending a false reverse signal. Thus, the enemy sees fictional goals.
Brightstorm was presented at the annual conference of the US Army Association (AUSA) in Washington. The new system was developed by the British division of Leonardo and weighs only 2.5 kilograms. The kit includes an antenna, transmitters and receivers, as well as a generator of miniature technology from Leonardo (Miniature Technique Generator).
Video-demonstration of Brightstorm from Leonardo
The system can be installed on any platform if it has a compartment for a payload and power, comparable to the size of an SUV battery. The cost of the device is designed for massive use, which makes Brightstorm less critical for the strategic plan during operations.
The main task of Brightstorm is to suppress enemy radar systems and ensure the protection of friendly forces. This is achieved by disrupting the integrated enemy defense system (IADS) and impairing the system’s ability to engage other targets. Brightstorm also effectively combats radars operating in the A-J ranges, making it a universal tool to combat various types of NATO radars.
Brightstorm can also use more traditional suppression methods, such as jamming the enemy system with electronic noise, providing additional protection for both manned and unmanned vehicles during operations. The system can hide winged missiles from enemy air defense systems and divert land-to-air missiles from the main targets.
According to Leonardo, the new device will attract considerable attention from NATO armies, including the US Armed