Framed within the modernization program of equipment and systems for the U.S. Navy’s carrier-based F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighters, RTX confirmed the latest progress in the development of its prototype ADVEW electronic warfare system. This was announced on September 22, 2025, by Raytheon, highlighting that the prototype successfully passed the Critical Design Review (CDR) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland.
The ADVEW program responds to the U.S. Navy’s need to modernize the systems integrated into its carrier-based fighters against increasingly sophisticated and complex threats, such as low-probability-of-intercept radars, integrated air defense systems, and long-range missiles. The Super Hornet, in service since 1999, continues to be the backbone of U.S. carrier aviation, complementing the stealthy F-35C. Its modernization in terms of electronic warfare capabilities is essential to guarantee survivability and deployment in A2/AD (Anti-Access/Area Denial) environments, especially in contested scenarios such as the Indo-Pacific.
In addition, the ADVEW program aligns with the Pentagon’s trend toward open and modular mission systems, which allow new technologies to be integrated more quickly and cost-effectively, ensuring the platform remains relevant until the mid-2040s.
In this context, in December 2023, the U.S. Navy awarded Raytheon an $80 million contract to develop the ADVEW prototype. The goal was to replace the veteran electronic countermeasures systems AN/ALQ-214 and the radar warning receivers AN/ALR-67(V)3, consolidating their functions into a single and more advanced solution.
The development of the new system is part of the U.S. Navy’s efforts to extend the service life of its carrier-based Super Hornets while introducing a generational renewal in electronic warfare, with fewer components, greater reliability, and integration capability with radiofrequency sensors and effectors already proven in combat.
However, the development of ADVEW is not exclusive to RTX. In parallel, in November 2023, the U.S. Navy also awarded another $80 million contract to L3Harris to develop its own prototype. L3Harris, the current provider of the AN/ALQ-214 system, presented a modular open-architecture design with integrated electronic support measures and electronic attack capability. Its proposal seeks to provide rapid threat detection across all relevant frequency bands, with the advantage of allowing agile and lower-cost technological upgrades.
Finally, Dan Theisen, president of Advanced Products & Solutions at Raytheon, stated that the system “will enhance the aircraft’s ability to detect and counter electronic threats” and remains aligned with the U.S. Navy’s accelerated timeline. In the coming months, RTX will continue with integration tests, flight demonstrations, and the delivery of initial sets for government trials.
*Photographs used for illustration purposes
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