Skyward-G system

Selex has been awarded a contract to supply its Skyward-G infrared search-and-track (IRST) systems to Saab.

Under the contract, Selex will deliver 60 Skyward-G systems for installation on-board the Swedish Air Force’s Gripen E multi-role combat aircraft fleet.

Manufactured at Selex’s facility in Nerviano, Italy, the Skyward-G is a long-range electro-optical sensor designed to register heat emissions from other aircraft, helicopters, as well as threats from the ground and sea surface, without itself emitting an electromagnetic radiation signal that prevents detection.

The passive system is mounted at the front of an aircraft, and can operate in highly cluttered environments to track single and multiple targets, as well as in slaved acquisition mode.

Expected to enable Gripen E to detect and track enemy targets, including aircraft, naval vessels and ground vehicles, the system features a ‘counter-stealth’ capability and, when used alone or in conjunction with Gripen’s sensors, can generate high-fidelity tracking data against complex targets over long ranges.

"The passive system is mounted at the front of an aircraft, and can operate in highly cluttered environments to track single and multiple targets."

Additional contract details including the value and delivery schedule remain undisclosed.

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Selex serves a major participant in the Gripen E programme, manufacturing and delivering 30% of the fighter’s electronics, including radar and Mode 5 identification friend/foe systems.

In July 2014, the company received a production contract from Saab for the Raven ES-05 active electronically scanned array radar, and was recently selected to supply its new BriteCloud expendable active decoy as an electronic warfare option for the aircraft.

The Gripen E is a next-generation version of the JAS 39 Gripen aircraft, and features more powerful engines, a new active electronically scanned array radar, advanced avionics, and upgraded presentation systems in the cockpit to successfully conduct longer missions.

Equipped with an increased number of weapon pylons, the fighter has maximum payload and more internal fuel for improved range and endurance, and has been ordered by the Swedish Air Force to date.


Image: The Skyward-G IRST system can register heat emissions from other aircraft, as well as threats from the ground and sea surface. Photo: © 2013 Selex ES SpA – A Finmeccanica Company.