Northrop Grumman has been awarded a $16.3 million modification to an existing contract by the U.S. Navy. The modification exercises an option for design agent engineering related to the Surface Guerra eletrónica Improvement Program (SEWIP) Block 3 systems.
SEWIP Block 3 capabilities
SEWIP Block 3 represents a significant upgrade to the legacy AN/SLQ-32 electronic warfare system, enhancing the U.S. Navy’s non-kinetic electronic attack options. This system is designed to protect surface ships from anti-ship missile and UAS threats by enabling early detection, signal analysis and threat warning. SEWIP Block 3’s ability to deceive, disrupt, and defeat inbound threats provides a layer of defence in the Navy’s broader electronic warfare strategy.
Northrop Grumman, as the design agent for this program, continues to advance the capabilities of of electromagnetic manoeuvre warfare (EMW). The SEWIP Block 3 system’s open, software-defined architecture allows for rapid integration of future capabilities, such as cognitive electronic warfare and AI-driven enhancements. These features are crucial for maintaining operational superiority in the evolving maritime threat environment.
Electronic warfare and counter-UAS operations
SEWIP Block 3’s electronic warfare capabilities can be leveraged for counter UAS operations. The system’s advanced signal processing and electromagnetic attack capabilities can be utilised to detect, disrupt and neutralise UAS threats, which are increasingly prevalent in both maritime and coastal defence scenarios.
Como UAS technology continues to evolve, the integration of SEWIP Block 3 into the Navy’s defence framework provides another layer to UAS and missile defence. The ability to adapt to new and emerging UAS tactics ensures that the Navy remains capable of defending against a wide range of aerial threats, including those posed by autonomous and swarm drones.
Post Image – A technician works on the SEWIP Block 3 system in an anechoic chamber (Post Image Credit: Northrop Grumman)
