A new and exciting technology has just been launched by defense contractor Leonardo: the BriteStorm miniature electronic warfare jammer. This low-cost device is designed to be carried by small drones, often called loyal wingman-type drones, and even expandable loitering munitions. But what exactly does it do, and why is it so important?

What Is BriteStorm?

BriteStorm is a type of electronic warfare system that focuses on stand-in jamming. This means it can interfere with enemy radar systems before friendly forces arrive. Imagine it as a sneak peek into the enemy’s radar, confusing their defenses and making it harder for them to detect our aircraft.

The technology behind BriteStorm builds on Leonardo’s previous product, the BriteCloud, which is a decoy used to mislead enemy radar. While BriteCloud is lightweight, BriteStorm is slightly heavier at about 5.5 pounds (2.5 kilograms). It may not be as small as a soda can, but it’s still quite compact for what it can do.

How Does It Work?

BriteStorm has several components, including an antenna, transmit-receive modules, and a special device called the Miniature Technique Generator. Together, these parts work to gather enemy radar signals and create fake signals that confuse radar operators. This makes it seem like there are many more targets in the sky than there actually are, creating a “ghost army” effect.

Leonardo’s Vice President of Sales for Electronic Warfare, Michael Lea, explained that BriteStorm can be fitted onto almost any drone or aircraft that has a payload bay and enough power—similar to that of a Humvee battery. One of the best parts? BriteStorm is designed to be affordable enough that losing it in action won’t be a major concern.

Why Is This Important?

BriteStorm is crucial for protecting friendly forces. By disrupting enemy radar systems, it can help keep our aircraft and troops safe. This is especially vital in modern warfare, where electronic warfare capabilities are becoming increasingly important.

With BriteStorm, small drones can work together to overwhelm enemy defenses from different angles. This makes it much harder for the enemy to figure out what’s real and what’s just a trick.

Real-World Applications

Leonardo unveiled BriteStorm at the Association of the U.S. Army’s main annual conference in Washington, D.C., and there is a lot of interest from military forces around the world. The U.S. Army, Air Force, and the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force are already considering how to integrate this new technology into their operations.

During flight tests, the BriteStorm jammers have already shown their effectiveness against enemy radar systems, proving that they can change the game in electronic warfare.

The Future of BriteStorm

As military forces become more interested in sophisticated electronic warfare strategies, BriteStorm stands out as a promising solution. Its ability to create confusion in enemy radar systems could be a game-changer in future conflicts, especially in high-stakes situations like those seen in the ongoing war in Ukraine.

With BriteStorm, Leonardo is paving the way for a new generation of electronic warfare technology that can enhance the safety and effectiveness of our military operations. The potential for small drones to create big ghost formations is not just fascinating; it could reshape the future of aerial combat as we know it.

BriteStorm is more than just a small device; it’s a powerful tool that could change how battles are fought in the skies. As we look to the future, the importance of mastering the electromagnetic spectrum will become increasingly clear, and BriteStorm is at the forefront of this exciting development in military technology.