Publication:Sea Talk Winter 2004/EW's look to future

Tri-service courses prepare for new platforms

The field of Electronic Warfare (EW) is one of the fastest growing and changing technology areas of the ADF.

The introduction of new airborne platforms into the ADF such as AEW+C, Battlefield Helicopter and Seasprite will see the reliance of EW based tactics and technology reach a new level.

In order to maximise the effectiveness of the ADF's EW assets, it is vital that aircrew are appropriately trained in EW theory and its operational use.

To meet this need, the Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Unit (JEWOSU) located at RAAF Edinburgh conducts a four-week tri-service EW course several times a year.

While the course is aimed at aircrew, other categories of personnel are welcome to apply.

The four-week course is made up of about 60 per cent lecture phase where EW theory, the operation of in-service EW equipment, threat systems as well as future EW systems and projects are taught.

Approximately 30 per cent of the course is dedicated to syndicate exercises where students research and present on EW systems or operational EW scenarios. This phase is specifically used to give an operational focus to the theory the students have learnt.

Students will gain a good level of knowledge on the EW equipment fitted to their platforms and the operational considerations for its use.

The remaining 10 per cent of the course is used to visit local units such as 92WG (P3C Orions), 16AD (RBS-70) and the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO).

JEWOSU also runs a two to three-day short EW course that is presented at units Australia wide. This provides generic EW and systems knowledge for a group of personnel who don't need or don't have the time for the four-week course.

Further details on the content of the EW course are available online at ednw002/jewsu (under JEWOSU overview) or by contacting WOFF McAndie on 08 8393 4714.