Contract Anticipated for Cutting-Edge Airborne Countermeasures
The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is poised to award Leonardo UK a significant contract for active expendable decoys (AEDs), set to enhance the survivability of F-35 and F-18 fighter jets. The deal, encompassing 3,000 to 6,000 countermeasures, is outlined in a recent presolicitation notice from the agency.
Multi-Year Agreement on the Horizon
The contract, scheduled for November 2026, is projected to span a base year with options for up to four additional years, covering fiscal years 2027 through 2031. The agreement will also include spare impulse cartridges and related equipment.
Leonardo Identified as Prime Candidate
Leonardo has been identified as the „only contractor” capable of fulfilling all requirements outlined in a related Sources Sought Notice. This strongly suggests that the company’s BriteCloud 218 decoy will be the system of choice.
BriteCloud’s Compact Design a Key Factor
While neither BriteCloud nor its U.S. designation, AN/ALQ-260(V)1, are explicitly mentioned in the notice, the acquisition’s core requirement centers around an AED with a 2x1x8 inch form factor, mirroring BriteCloud’s 218 design.
Production to Ramp Up Significantly
NAVAIR plans to initially acquire an estimated 3,000 AEDs annually for two years, subsequently doubling the quantity in follow-on years. Production is expected to commence at a rate of 300 units per month.
Advanced Technology Meets Stringent Requirements
Prior to the presolicitation decision, Leonardo had to meet an AED „mission load programmable” requirement, as well as offer a radiofrequency countermeasure Technology Readiness Level 9 (TRL-9) solution. BriteCloud leverages advanced Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) jamming technology to disrupt incoming missiles’ RF tracking systems, and can be launched from standard countermeasure dispensers.
BriteCloud’s Operational Debut
In March 2025, a news release revealed that BriteCloud was deployed for the „first time” by an F-35 squadron attached to the Navy’s Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2. VFA-97, the only F-35C squadron connected to CVW 2, was likely the unit involved.
