Electronic Support

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Electronic Support (ES) is a passive electronic warfare (EW) capability focused on intercepting, identifying, locating, and analyzing enemy electromagnetic (EM) emissions across the electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) for intelligence gathering and real-time situational awareness. This includes signals intelligence (SIGINT), electronic intelligence (ELINT), and communications intelligence (COMINT) to inform tactical and strategic decision-making, threat warning, and targeting.

BACKGROUND

A defense contractor is a business organization or individual that provides products or services to a military or intelligence department of a government. Products typically include military or civilian aircraft, ships, vehicles, weaponry, and electronic systems, while services can include logistics, technical support and training, communications support, and engineering support in cooperation with the government.

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

• ES
• ELINT
• SIGINT
• ESM
• Electronic Support Measures
• RWR

USAGE NOTE

ES is crucial for battlefield awareness, providing early warning of threats and informing electronic attack and protection strategies.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Electronic Support.

• BAE Systems

  Develops advanced electronic warfare and intelligence systems, including solutions for signal collection, analysis, and threat identification, which are core to Electronic Support.

• RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies)

  Provides a wide range of electronic warfare and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, including passive detection and signal analysis capabilities critical for Electronic Support.

• Lockheed Martin

  Engages in the development of sophisticated electronic warfare and sensor systems, often integrated into their aircraft and naval platforms, which include capabilities for electronic intelligence and support.

• Northrop Grumman

  A leader in electronic warfare, SIGINT, and intelligence systems, offering solutions for intercepting, analyzing, and locating electromagnetic emissions for threat warning and intelligence gathering.

• L3Harris Technologies

  Specializes in integrated electronic warfare, SIGINT, and ISR solutions, providing advanced systems for sensing, collecting, and processing intelligence from the electromagnetic spectrum.

• SAAB

  Develops advanced electronic warfare self-protection systems and intelligence solutions, including radar warning receivers and electronic intelligence systems that provide essential Electronic Support capabilities.

• Leonardo

  Offers comprehensive electronic warfare and intelligence systems for naval, airborne, and land platforms, focusing on signal intelligence, electronic surveillance, and threat awareness.

• Elbit Systems

  Provides a wide array of electronic warfare and intelligence systems, including electronic support measures (ESM) and signal intelligence (SIGINT) solutions for various military applications.