The U.S. Navy is actively seeking industry partners to develop and manufacture a fresh generation of expendable electronic warfare decoys, designed to enhance the survivability of its fighter aircraft – including the advanced F-35 Lightning II and the workhorse F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. This initiative, revealed in a sources sought notice released on February 25, 2026, signals a significant investment in bolstering defenses against increasingly sophisticated radar and missile threats. The program aims to procure thousands of these single-use decoys over the next five years, beginning in fiscal year 2027, representing a proactive step toward maintaining a technological edge in modern aerial warfare.
The Navy’s interest in transitioning to the F-35C and continuing to operate the F/A-18E/F highlights the require for layered defensive capabilities. Active Expendable Decoys (AEDs) offer a crucial addition to existing onboard electronic warfare systems, providing a self-contained, independent layer of protection. These battery-powered devices are released during flight and emit radio-frequency signals designed to mimic or amplify an aircraft’s electronic signature, effectively diverting enemy targeting systems. This tactic buys critical time and distance for pilots facing advanced air defenses.
Expanding Defensive Countermeasure Capacity
According to Naval Air Systems Command, the planned procurement program will initially focus on acquiring approximately 3,000 decoys annually for the first two years, scaling up to roughly 6,000 units per year in subsequent periods. Manufacturing is expected to begin at a rate of 300 devices per month, with deliveries potentially starting as early as four months after a contract is awarded and no later than ten months after award or option activation. The Navy envisions a contract structure that combines fixed-price production with cost-reimbursable support services for repairs and field personnel.
The sources sought notice emphasizes that This represents a market research activity, not a formal request for proposals. Information gathered will be used to refine acquisition planning before a formal solicitation is issued, with a contract award anticipated in November 2026. The Navy is specifically seeking “production-ready solutions” that can be rapidly deployed to enhance defensive capabilities across multiple aircraft platforms, not just the F-35 and F/A-18, but potentially other U.S. Government aircraft as well.
Technical Specifications and Readiness Levels
The technical requirements for these AEDs are stringent. The Navy specifies a compact form factor – approximately 2 inches by 1 inch by 8 inches – and demands that the systems be mission-load programmable by government personnel. Crucially, the decoys must demonstrate Technology Readiness Level 9 (TRL 9) performance, signifying an operational system proven through successful mission use. Manufacturing readiness is equally important, requiring Level 9 maturity, indicating established low-rate production capability ready for full-scale manufacturing.
The Navy has already integrated AED capability onto the F-35, with a fielding decision already made. Integration efforts for the F/A-18 are expected to reach a fielding decision by fiscal year 2027, according to the notice. This phased approach allows for a measured rollout of the technology, leveraging lessons learned from the F-35 implementation. As reported by ABC30 in December 2025, the F-35C is considered the most advanced aircraft currently flown by the Navy.
A Layered Approach to Survivability
The deployment of expendable electronic warfare decoys represents a key component of a broader, layered survivability approach. Unlike reusable jamming systems, these decoys are designed for single use, sacrificing themselves to draw enemy fire away from manned aircraft. This strategy complements onboard electronic attack systems, evasive maneuvering tactics, and other defensive measures. By operating independently of the aircraft’s internal avionics, the decoys can continue to function even if those systems are compromised or overwhelmed.
The development of these systems has prioritized modular, self-contained designs that can be easily integrated across various aircraft types with minimal modification. This adaptability is crucial for rapidly scaling defensive capabilities in response to evolving threat landscapes. The Navy’s investment in this technology underscores its commitment to protecting its air assets and maintaining operational superiority in contested environments.
The need for such countermeasures is driven by the increasing sophistication of modern air defense systems. These systems employ advanced radar technologies and increasingly accurate missile guidance systems, posing a significant threat to even the most advanced aircraft. By deploying AEDs, the Navy aims to disrupt these systems, increasing the chances of mission success and pilot survival.
The next key milestone in this program is the anticipated contract award in November 2026. Industry partners are currently preparing their responses to the sources sought notice, outlining their capabilities and proposed solutions. The Navy will then evaluate these responses to determine which companies are best positioned to deliver this critical defensive capability. Readers interested in following the progress of this program can monitor updates from Naval Air Systems Command and related defense industry news sources.
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