Farnborough Branch: Electromagnetic Warfare (EW) in the Air Domain - Past, Present and Future

This RAeS Farnborough Branch lecture examines Electromagnetic Warfare (EW) in the air domain, tracing its evolution from the early 20th century to the present day and considering future developments. The presentation explores how defence and security operations depend increasingly on the electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) as the primary medium for information collection and dissemination. Beginning with radio's invention in the late 19th century and its widespread adoption for communication, the lecture covers how radar emerged as a transformative technology within 50 years, significantly impacting military operations. More recent developments in infra-red and laser systems are also examined as key elements in modern defence and security applications.

The lecture explains how participants in military operations must maintain their own ability to use the EMS whilst occasionally denying or controlling opponents' access to it. EW encompasses three broad operational areas: Electromagnetic Surveillance, Electromagnetic Defence, and Electromagnetic Attack. The speaker will provide insights into equipment innovations spanning 1900 to present day, illustrating how past developments have shaped air operations whilst highlighting challenges facing future air capability development.

Speaker Steve Roberts brings extensive expertise, having studied Engineering and Computer Science at Cambridge University whilst sponsored by GEC Marconi. His career includes 20 years leading engineering teams conducting trials of Electronic Warfare equipment on platforms including Tornado, Harrier and Typhoon, followed by 10 years as EW Technology Director at BAE Systems and EW Capability Director for Selex. He concluded his career as Strategy Director for Selex and Leonardo Electronics, overseeing product portfolios encompassing all electronic equipment forms, UAVs, and EMSO applications across all operational domains.