Israeli defense company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has announced it has won a contract to supply its innovative “Digital Shark” naval electronic countermeasure (ECM) system to an undisclosed NATO member state. This cutting-edge technology is engineered to autonomously and instantaneously counter a variety of threats from multiple directions, enhancing maritime security.
The Digital Shark ECM system is equipped with sophisticated Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) transmitters and boasts an impressive range of Digital Radio Frequency Memory channels. These features significantly enhance its jamming capabilities, allowing for effective interception and suppression of various incoming enemy radar signals. With a receiver sensitivity surpassing negative 65 dBmi, the system can detect even the most faint signals, offering a tactical advantage in complex operational environments.
The system incorporates advanced techniques aimed at misleading potential adversaries. One notable method is the Range Gate Pull Off/In (RGPO/I) technique, which manipulates the perceived distance of detected targets. In addition, the Velocity Gate Pull Off/In (VGPO/I) method alters the perceived speed of these targets, further complicating the threat assessment for enemy forces. The Digital Shark can also generate deceptive signals, utilize amplitude modulation, and employ various noise and spoofing tactics to distract and mislead adversaries, significantly boosting the operational effectiveness of naval fleets.
Rafael has designed the Digital Shark not only for integration with naval platforms but also as a versatile asset on land, making it an effective complementary sensor and effector within air defense systems. The modular design allows operators to install the ECM system on vehicles or use it with a pedestal, providing flexible options to control it either locally or remotely.
Vice President and Head of Rafael’s Naval Systems Division, Ran Tavor, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “We are honored to support this specific fleet with a cutting-edge system that strengthens electronic defense and bolsters offensive responses to today’s advanced radar threats.” This contract reinforces Rafael’s commitment to advancing defense technology and enhancing the operational capabilities of allied forces in responding to contemporary threats in the maritime domain.
