BAE Systems is to develop an ultra-wideband sensor for the U.S. Navy for rapid detection, identification and location of RF signal emitters over all threat bands and from all directions.

The development contract for the the Full-Spectrum Staring Receiver was issued by the Office of Naval Research and is worth $11 million. The system is part of ONR's Electronic Warfare Discovery & Invention Program to develop a broad range of next-generation electronic warfare systems that exploit, deceive or deny enemy use of the electromagnetic spectrum.

"The Full-Spectrum Staring Receiver program integrates a complementary array of innovative technologies into a comprehensive demonstration capability that closes a widening gap for a range of Navy ships and aircraft," said Steve Hedges, FSSR principal investigator at BAE Systems. "By subjecting the FSSR demonstrator to realistic, complex electromagnetic environments, we can demonstrate how these discrete innovations combine to enable an effective EW (electronic warfare) system capability."

"I am particularly excited by this research effort because it integrates a number of electronic warfare technologies that have been advanced by ONR-funded efforts dating back to 2008," said Dr. Peter Craig, electronic warfare program officer for ONR. "Even more gratifying is that it brings together the talents of researchers from academia, industry and the government in a coordinated effort that will benefit not only the Navy but the entire Department of Defense community."

BAE Systems' FSSR team includes the S2 Corporation, University of Colorado Boulder, Montana State University, Purdue University, HRL Laboratories and the Naval Research Laboratory.