BAE Systems launches Shadow EW family of compact software-defined electronic warfare systems
BAE Systems has launched Shadow EW, a family of compact, software-defined electronic warfare systems designed for integration on small drones, munitions, and other airborne platforms. The systems are intended to bring EW capabilities traditionally associated with larger platforms to low-cost, attritable assets. BAE described the offering as modular and reconfigurable, with variants tailored to different size, weight, and power constraints. No customer orders were announced.
Why it matters: BAE just productised EW for the drone-swarm era — if the price and form factor work, this could finally close the gap between expensive self-protection suites and throwaway platforms that need them.
Pentagon and BAE Systems sign framework for up to 25,000 APKWS laser-guidance kits annually over seven years
The U.S. Department of War and BAE Systems have agreed a framework contract allowing the purchase of up to 25,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System guidance kits per year for as long as seven years, with capacity to scale to 35,000 kits. APKWS converts unguided 70 mm Hydra rockets into precision-guided munitions using a laser seeker mid-body section. The system has been fielded by the U.S. military and exported to more than 30 countries.
Why it matters: The seven-year horizon and upper capacity of 35,000 kits per year signal sustained demand for cheap precision fires — a doctrine shift visible across NATO after Ukraine demonstrated the cost-effectiveness of converting legacy munitions into guided weapons at scale.
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BAE Systems awarded U.S. Space Force contract to develop compact jam-resistant satellite terminals
BAE Systems won a U.S. Space Force contract to design and demonstrate ultra-compact radio-frequency terminals for a space-based data layer that can operate amid jamming and radiation. No contract value was disclosed.
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BAE Systems unveils MDACS 155mm cannon and high-power microwave for counter-swarm roles
BAE Systems revealed two counter-drone solutions at AUSA: a truck-mounted Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon System (MDACS) using a 155mm gun for air defense and ground strikes, and a high-power microwave system for mass drone swarms. The MDACS prototype was shown publicly for the first time. Both systems address the growing threat of coordinated drone attacks.
Why it matters: BAE is pitching 155mm howitzers as anti-aircraft guns—a return to 1940s logic that makes economic sense when drones cost $500 and Patriot intercepts cost $4 million.
BAE Systems wins order for F-35 electronic warfare systems covering Lots 20–22
BAE Systems has received a contract from Lockheed Martin to produce AN/ASQ-239 electronic warfare suites for F-35 production Lots 20 through 22, plus retrofit kits for earlier aircraft. The AN/ASQ-239 provides the F-35 with radar warning, electronic support, and countermeasures capabilities integral to the aircraft's survivability.
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