The US Navy is preparing to award a contract to Leonardo for the supply of thousands of airborne countermeasure systems to enhance the survivability of its F-35 Lightning II and F/A-18 Hornet, Super Hornet, and Growler aircraft. According to a notice from the Naval Air Systems Command, the Navy intends to negotiate a fixed-price contract that will cover materials, labor, equipment, and overhead—directed to Leonardo’s UK-based subsidiary.
The anticipated contract includes the annual production of between 3,000 and 6,000 Active Expendable Decoys (AEDs), in addition to spare impulse cartridges, sustainment and support equipment, and the provision of field service representatives. Among the systems expected to be delivered is Leonardo’s BriteCloud decoy, an advanced self-contained, battery-powered radio frequency countermeasure designed to deceive radar-guided threats.
The BriteCloud is currently available in two formats: a 55mm cylindrical model weighing 1.1 kg (2.4 lbs) and a rectangular version measuring 155 mm (6.1 inches) in length and weighing 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs). Both configurations are engineered for easy deployment from combat aircraft dispensers and provide high-performance protection against modern air defense systems.
