Defense & Military
L3Harris Wins 300 Million Contract for Italian EA 37B Electronic Attack Jets
L3Harris secures $300M contract to convert Gulfstream G550 jets into EA 37B electronic attack aircraft for the Italian Air Force by 2027.
L3Harris Secures $300 Million Contract for Italian Air Force Electronic Attack Aircraft
The Italian Air Force is set to significantly enhance its electronic warfare capabilities through a $300 million contract awarded to L3Harris Technologies for the modification of two Gulfstream G550 business jets into advanced electronic attack (EA) platforms. This marks the first Foreign Military Sales success for the EA-37B Compass Call system, aligning Italy’s capabilities with the U.S. Air Force’s next-generation electromagnetic warfare assets. The modified aircraft will disrupt enemy command-and-control networks, communications, radars, and navigation systems from extended ranges, providing Italy with long-range jamming capabilities that complement existing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets. This acquisition reflects broader NATO efforts to counter peer adversaries in contested electromagnetic spectrums while enhancing coalition interoperability.
Historical Development of Airborne Electronic Attack Capabilities
Evolution from Legacy Platforms
Airborne electronic attack has undergone transformative shifts since the Cold War, transitioning from propeller-driven platforms like the EC-130H Compass Call to jet-powered systems offering superior speed, altitude, and survivability. The EC-130H, operational since the early 1980s, provided foundational electronic warfare capabilities but faced limitations in modern threat environments due to airframe age and technological constraints. This drove the U.S. Air Force’s development of the EA-37B Compass Call, a Gulfstream G550 derivative featuring advanced digital signal processing, open-system architecture, and reduced operating costs.
The EA-37B addresses the need for a more agile, survivable, and upgradeable platform capable of operating in contested environments. It represents a significant leap in capability, allowing for real-time reprogramming of mission profiles and integration with joint and coalition forces.
Italy’s decision to adopt this platform reflects a broader shift among NATO allies to modernize their electronic warfare fleets in response to evolving threats in the electromagnetic spectrum.
The Gulfstream G550 in Military Applications
The Gulfstream G550 business jet platform offers distinct advantages for electronic warfare conversions, including exceptional range, high-altitude performance, and airframe stability for sensor integration. Israel pioneered military applications through the G550 CAEW (Conformal Airborne Early Warning) variant, which informed subsequent U.S. and Italian developments.
Structural modifications include conformal antenna arrays mounted laterally along the fuselage, radomes for sensor protection, and reinforced racks for mission equipment, adaptations that preserve aerodynamic efficiency while accommodating electronic warfare payloads. The airframe’s modular design enables rapid reconfiguration for emerging threats, a critical factor in Italy’s selection of this platform.
Italy has already integrated the G550 into its fleet through the E-550A AEW&C and JAMMS variants, establishing a foundation of operational familiarity and logistical support that supports the expansion into electronic attack roles.
Contract Architecture and Industrial Partnerships
$300 Million Base Contract Scope
L3Harris Technologies’ $300 million contract covers comprehensive modification of two “green” Gulfstream G550 airframes into dedicated electronic attack platforms. Work includes installation of the EA-37B mission system, structural enhancements for antenna integration, and testing/validation procedures. Gulfstream Aerospace performs initial airframe modifications, including sensor housing installation, before delivery to L3Harris’ Greenville, Texas facility for mission systems integration.
The program follows a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) framework administered by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency. Delivery timelines align with Italy’s broader G550 fleet modernization, targeting operational capability by 2027.
This contract is part of a larger modernization initiative, with potential expansions depending on operational outcomes and future defense planning within the Italian Ministry of Defense.
Subcontractor Ecosystem and BAE Systems’ Role
A critical subcontract involves BAE Systems’ $12 million agreement with L3Harris to provide modification hardware including racks, radomes, cables, and harnesses for the two aircraft. This collaboration leverages BAE’s expertise in electronic warfare systems, particularly the Compass Call mission suite adapted from U.S. Air Force configurations.
BAE Systems provides key components that ensure the Italian EA-37Bs maintain interoperability with U.S. systems, allowing for shared logistics, training, and operational doctrine. This is especially important given NATO’s emphasis on coalition warfare and joint operations.
According to Cory Casalegno, BAE Systems’ director for Coalition Electronic Attack, the program “broadens the strength of the global allied fleet and supports the mission of the U.S. Air Force.”
“Providing high-powered, long-range jamming capabilities to an important U.S. ally broadens the strength of the global allied fleet and supports the mission of the U.S. Air Force.” — Cory Casalegno, BAE Systems
Technical Capabilities of the EA-37B Platform
Core Electronic Warfare Systems
The EA-37B configuration centers on BAE Systems’ Small Adaptive Bank of Electronic Resources (SABER) technology, which replaces hardware-based systems with software-defined radios for adaptable electromagnetic warfare. This enables real-time reprogramming to counter emerging threats without physical modifications.
Key systems include a high-power electronic attack suite targeting communications, GPS navigation, and radar systems, as well as cyber-electronic integration for coordinated operations with fifth-generation aircraft. Survivability features include ECCM and infrared countermeasures.
The aircraft operates with a crew of nine, two pilots and seven mission specialists, managing electronic warfare, signals intelligence, and cyber operations.
Performance Advantages Over Legacy Systems
Compared to legacy EC-130H platforms, the EA-37B offers significantly improved performance, including higher speed, altitude, and reduced operating costs. Its extended standoff range allows jamming operations from outside most surface-to-air missile engagement envelopes.
Mission endurance exceeds eight hours, enabling persistent coverage during joint operations. The platform’s open architecture facilitates future upgrades, including AI-enabled threat detection and response.
These features make the EA-37B a future-proof asset capable of adapting to rapidly evolving electronic warfare environments.
Strategic Implications for Italian Defense
Force Multiplier for Joint Operations
Italy’s EA-37Bs will integrate with its existing G550 special mission fleet, including JAMMS and E-550A AEW&C aircraft. This creates a layered ISR and electronic warfare capability that enhances situational awareness and threat suppression.
The JAMMS-configured G550s provide signals intelligence, identifying targets for the EA-37Bs to engage. The E-550A aircraft can coordinate these operations by directing assets toward high-priority threats.
This synergy increases the effectiveness of Italy’s air operations and strengthens its contributions to NATO’s collective defense posture.
Counter-A2/AD Posture Enhancement
The acquisition addresses anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) challenges in regions like the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe. By disrupting enemy command-and-control at operational depths, the EA-37Bs enable access for fighter operations and other air assets.
This capability is vital for NATO operations in contested environments, where electronic warfare assets must neutralize radar and communication systems before kinetic engagements begin.
According to Jon Rambeau, president of L3Harris Integrated Mission Systems, the aircraft will provide “an airborne jamming ability with range, altitude and endurance to disrupt enemy systems from an extended distance.”
Industry and Geopolitical Context
Electronic Warfare Market Expansion
The L3Harris contract reflects a growing global interest in electronic warfare capabilities. Defense modernization efforts across NATO and allied nations are increasingly focusing on electromagnetic spectrum operations.
Electronic warfare systems are foundational to sixth-generation platforms like the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), and countries like the UK and Belgium are investing in similar capabilities.
Italy’s investment positions it as a leading NATO member in this domain, with potential for future collaboration on multinational electronic warfare initiatives.
Interoperability Imperatives
The EA-37B acquisition enhances interoperability with U.S. forces through shared systems, training, and operational doctrine. Italian crews are expected to train alongside U.S. personnel at Davis-Monthan AFB, where the U.S. EA-37B fleet is based.
Common mission systems allow for seamless integration during coalition operations, while compatibility with NATO’s electromagnetic battle management architecture ensures unified command and control.
This interoperability is crucial for joint missions, especially in high-threat environments where coordinated electronic warfare can determine mission success.
Recent Developments and Implementation Timeline
Production Milestones
Gulfstream is currently installing sensor housings on the Italian G550s, with mission systems fabrication underway at BAE Systems. L3Harris will integrate all components at its Texas facility.
Parallel efforts include the JAMMS program, with two aircraft undergoing modification to support signals intelligence and electronic warfare missions. The JAMMS aircraft are expected to be operational by 2026.
These synchronized efforts aim to deliver a comprehensive electronic warfare capability to the Italian Air Force by 2027.
Future Capability Roadmap
Italy’s electronic warfare roadmap includes three phases: initial operational capability by 2026, networked warfare integration by 2030, and AI-enabled capabilities thereafter.
Future developments may include integration with unmanned systems and cognitive electronic warfare technologies that autonomously detect and respond to threats.
This roadmap ensures Italy remains at the forefront of electronic warfare innovation within NATO.
Conclusion
Italy’s procurement of EA-37B electronic attack aircraft marks a significant leap in its defense modernization strategy. The $300 million contract with L3Harris enhances Italy’s ability to operate in contested electromagnetic environments and supports NATO’s collective defense objectives.
As global threats evolve, the integration of advanced electronic warfare platforms like the EA-37B will be essential. Italy’s investment not only strengthens its national defense but also reinforces its role as a key NATO partner in the electromagnetic domain.
FAQ
What is the EA-37B Compass Call?
The EA-37B is an electronic attack aircraft based on the Gulfstream G550, designed to disrupt enemy communications, radars, and navigation systems.
Why did Italy choose the G550 platform?
The G550 offers high altitude, long range, and modular design, making it ideal for electronic warfare missions and integration with existing Italian Air Force assets.
When will the aircraft be operational?
The aircraft are expected to reach initial operational capability by 2026, with full integration into Italy’s defense network by 2027.
Sources
Photo Credit: L3Harris
Defense & Military
Pratt Whitney Completes 3D-Printed TJ150 Turbojet Demo Test
Pratt & Whitney validates additive manufacturing for the TJ150, consolidating 50+ hot section parts into 3D-printed components.
Pratt & Whitney has successfully completed demonstration testing of an additively manufactured TJ150 turbojet engine, a process that consolidated more than 50 individual hot section components into a small number of 3D-printed parts.
The RTX Corporation subsidiary announced the milestone on July 20, 2026, during the Farnborough International Airshow in London. The test results validate the manufacturer’s strategy to use additive manufacturing to simplify design and accelerate production for expendable military propulsion systems.
Consolidating hot section components
According to the press release, nearly 60 percent of the TJ150 engine’s volume was produced using additive manufacturing. This volume includes major static and rotating hardware. By utilizing 3D printing technologies, engineers reduced the complexity of the engine’s hot section and replaced over 50 traditional parts with a handful of consolidated components.
The TJ150 is a 150-pound thrust class turbojet designed for single-use applications.
“For expendable engines like the TJ150, where missions can last minutes or hours, simplifying the design and scaling production quickly is essential to meeting rising demand,” said Jill Albertelli, President of Military Engines at Pratt & Whitney.
Integration with cruise missiles and decoys
The successful demonstration of the 3D-printed TJ150 follows recent contract awards and integration announcements for the engine platform. On March 10, 2026, Pratt & Whitney secured a follow-on contract from Leidos Dynetics to supply TJ150 engines for the AGM-190A small cruise missile.
In a separate announcement on July 15, 2026, Raytheon confirmed plans to prioritize the TJ150 engine for the initial production of the Miniature Air-Launched Decoy (MALD). Raytheon noted that utilizing the existing engine platform keeps restart timelines short while the company explores additively manufactured engines for longer-term opportunities.
Expanding additive manufacturing applications
Pratt & Whitney plans to apply the manufacturing techniques validated during the TJ150 demonstration to other propulsion programs. Albertelli stated that additive manufacturing helps the company move designs from concept to capability faster. She confirmed that the manufacturer is leveraging the TJ150 learnings to benefit other systems, including the Pratt & Whitney Valox engine family.
AirPro News analysis
The successful test of a heavily 3D-printed TJ150 highlights a critical shift in defense aerospace manufacturing. As military operators demand higher volumes of autonomous systems, decoys, and tactical missiles, traditional supply chains for small turbine engines face significant bottlenecks. Casting and machining conventional hot-section components requires extensive tooling and long lead times. By consolidating dozens of parts into a few additively manufactured pieces, we see manufacturers directly addressing the need for rapid scalability.
Expendable engines operate for very short durations, meaning they do not require the same long-term durability as commercial or manned military turbofans. This specific operational profile makes them ideal candidates for additive manufacturing, allowing producers to prioritize production speed and cost reduction over thousands of hours of time-on-wing reliability.
Photo Credit: RTX
Defense & Military
GE Aerospace and Magellan Sign F414 MRO MOU for Canada
GE Aerospace and Magellan Aerospace signed an MOU at Farnborough to establish a Canadian F414 engine MRO center if Canada selects the Gripen E.
GE Aerospace and Magellan Aerospace Corporation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on July 22, 2026, at the Farnborough International Airshow to establish a Canadian MRO center for the F414-GE-39E engine. The agreement is entirely contingent on the Government of Canada selecting the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E for its future fighter fleet.
Announced in a GE Aerospace press release, the proposed MRO work would take place at Magellan’s facility in Mississauga, Ontario. The partnership aims to position Magellan as Canada’s domestic center of excellence for F414 engine sustainment, guaranteeing sovereign support capabilities for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) if the Gripen E is acquired.
Industrial offsets and the Gripen E campaign
The MOU represents a calculated component of a broader industrial offset campaign by Saab AB and its suppliers to secure a portion of Canada’s fighter procurement contract. The Canadian government is currently reviewing its fighter jet strategy. While Ottawa previously committed to purchasing a fleet of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II Military-Aircraft, the government is evaluating a potential mixed fleet that could include domestically built Gripen E fighters.
To strengthen the Gripen’s bid, Saab has been securing agreements with Canadian aerospace firms to promise domestic job creation and technology transfer. This engine sustainment agreement follows a similar MOU signed on July 17, 2026, between Saab and Canadian aviation training firm CAE Inc. to cooperate on advanced fighter pilot Training.
Engine sustainment and domestic capabilities
The F414 engine family has accumulated more than 5 million flight hours globally. The new agreement builds on a 60-year working relationship between GE Aerospace and Magellan Aerospace Corporation.
Paul Ferraro, Vice President of Defense Engines & Services at GE Aerospace, stated that the agreement spans both military and commercial engines and will ensure the RCAF has in-country access to sustainment services to maintain F414 readiness.
Haydn Martin, Vice President of Business Development, Marketing, and Contracts at Magellan Aerospace Corporation, emphasized the operational benefits of the proposed partnership.
“Should the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E aircraft be selected, Magellan Aerospace will be ready to provide world-class engine maintenance, repair and overhaul services that enhance operational readiness for the Royal Canadian Air Force while maintaining highly skilled Canadian jobs, developing advanced technical expertise, and strengthening Canada’s long-term defence industrial capacity,” Martin said.
AirPro News analysis
We view this MOU as a clear signal that the competition for Canada’s fighter fleet remains highly active despite the initial F-35A selection. By lining up domestic heavyweights like Magellan and CAE, Saab is directly addressing Ottawa’s stringent Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy requirements. If the Government of Canada opts for a mixed fleet, establishing sovereign MRO capabilities for the F414 engine will be a critical factor in mitigating supply chain risks and ensuring RCAF operational independence. Until a formal procurement decision is finalized, these agreements remain strategic positioning rather than guaranteed Contracts.
Sources: GE Aerospace
Photo Credit: GE Aerospace
Defense & Military
CBP AMO Orders 10 Airbus H125 Helicopters for Fleet Expansion
CBP Air and Marine Operations contracts for 10 Airbus H125 helicopters, expanding a 30-year fleet of over 100 rotary-wing aircraft.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (CBP AMO) has finalized a contract to acquire 10 additional Airbus H125 helicopters, expanding a fleet modernization effort that relies heavily on the single-engine platform for border security and law enforcement missions.
In a press release issued on July 7, 2026, Airbus confirmed the agreement, which reinforces a three-decade relationship between the federal agency and the aerospace manufacturer. The new helicopters will be assembled at the Airbus Helicopters production facility in Columbus, Mississippi.
Expanding the airborne law enforcement fleet
The latest acquisition builds upon a previous order placed in August 2020, when CBP AMO contracted for 16 H125 helicopters to upgrade its aging rotary-wing assets. The agency currently operates a total fleet of more than 240 aircraft, which includes over 100 helicopters from the Airbus H120 and H125 families delivered over the past 30 years.
The H125, formerly known as the Eurocopter AS350, is utilized by CBP AMO for a variety of demanding flight profiles, including border surveillance, suspect pursuit, and general public safety operations across the United States.
Bart Reijnen, Head of the North America Region for Airbus Helicopters, stated that the expansion “underscores the long-standing collaboration” between the manufacturer and the federal agency. He added that the selection highlights the trust placed in the H125 to execute critical public safety missions under demanding conditions, with Airbus committing to provide comprehensive services to maintain mission readiness.
Virtual reality integration for pilot training
As CBP AMO increases its H125 inventory, the agency is simultaneously overhauling how it trains the personnel who fly them. In November 2025, CBP became the first federal law enforcement agency and the first branch of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to integrate virtual reality into its aerial training program.
According to reporting by FLYING Magazine, the agency awarded a contract to adopt an FAA-qualified Airbus H125 virtual reality flight simulator developed by Loft Dynamics. The simulator is being installed at the CBP AMO training center in Oklahoma City, where it will be used to train the agency’s roster of more than 600 pilots.
AirPro News analysis
We view CBP AMO’s continued investment in the H125 platform as a clear indicator of the agency’s preference for fleet commonality. Operating a standardized fleet of over 100 H125-family helicopters significantly reduces maintenance overhead, streamlines supply chains, and simplifies pilot transition training. Furthermore, Airbus’s strategy of assembling these aircraft in Columbus, Mississippi, likely plays a crucial role in navigating federal procurement requirements, ensuring that the European manufacturer remains highly competitive for U.S. government contracts. The parallel investment in Loft Dynamics’ VR simulators suggests the agency is preparing for a sustained, long-term operational lifespan for the H125 fleet.
Sources: Airbus
Photo Credit: Airbus
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