September 16, 2025 –As electromagnetic warfare systems proliferate with increasing complexity, the need to synchronize and assess rapidly changing activities in a concerted manner has become a seemingly ever-growing need. A leader in the field is Collins Aerospace, an RTX (Raytheon) business, which has been awarded a contract by the NATO Communications & Information Agency to provide its Electronic Warfare Planning & Battle Management solution to NATO. The integrated software tool is designed to plan, direct, coordinate, synchronize, and assess electromagnetic warfare activities.
EM warfare systems can involve extensive arrays of magnets and magnetic systems. Both permanent and superconducting magnets are used in components such as radar systems, guidance systems and communication devices. High-power electromagnets generate electromagnetic pulses, or directed energy, that amplify signals. Tiny permanent magnets positioned in guidance fins help maneuver smart bombs and guided artillery shells to steer them in flight. In a typical battleground, both sides may have EM systems deployed so it is paramount for the control systems to assess whether a system is enemy or friendly.
The software generates a “recognized electromagnetic picture”, combining data from operations, intelligence systems and other sources, as well as an Electronic Order of Battle, detailing the location and function of electronic devices. The comprehensive overview is designed to enhance the understanding of both friendly and enemy electromagnetic warfare capabilities.
“We’re equipping commanders with a critical tool to visualize electronic warfare threats and automate the use of jammers and sensors,” said Ryan Bunge, vice president and general manager for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence & Autonomy at Collins Aerospace. “This system will enhance joint operations’ effectiveness, interoperability, scalability, and resilience.”
The system advances traditional battle management by incorporating situational awareness of the electromagnetic environment, aiding commanders in navigating complex multi-domain warfare. In addition to creating an electromagnetic operating picture, it manages electronic warfare tactics, processes data for action plans, and monitors sensors and jammers.
