The U.S.-based Electronics Systems business of BAE Systems revealed what it claims to be a next-generation threat warning system for aircraft. The 3-Dimensional Advanced Warning System (3DAWS) provides a more definitive warning to aircrew by emitting an active radar interrogating pulse, upon cueing from a "traditional" passive threat warning system. BAE also announced a cooperation with DRS, the U.S. subsidiary of Leonardo, to employ the latter’s long-range infrared sensors.

Today’s warning systems—such as BAE’s own Common Missile Warning System (CMWS)—assess threats using two-dimensional data (azimuth and elevation), a company spokesman explained. 3DAWS additionally provides range data and can therefore determine “whether a track is a false alarm or an incoming threat, and then quickly respond with the appropriate countermeasure,” said Cheryl Paradis, director of threat management solutions for BAE Systems. The company said that 3DAWS would not only maximize the effectiveness of current flare and directable infrared countermeasures systems but also provide the necessary tracking capabilities for future soft- and hard-kill counters to incoming threats.

The development is aimed firstly at the U.S. Army, which already employs the BAE Systems CMWS as standard on its fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft. 

The cooperation with DRS is also driven by potential Army requirements. “We offer an extremely advanced and accurate sensor,” said Shawn Black, vice president and general manager of electro-optical and infrared systems at Leonardo DRS. “Our long-range missile launch detecting capability provides crews with increased warning time, greatly improving their ability to respond and survive,” he added.