WORLD ELECTRONIC‘Wild Weasels win wizard war.” Here in ‘one imaginary headline isthe essence of aireorne electronic warfare, with its impenetrable code words and air of dark mystery. The Wild Weasels, the anti- radar defence-suppression Phantoms, Thunderchiefs and Super Sabres used by the USAF inthe Vietnam War, represent one ofthe most significant ‘developments in the "wizard war,” the ‘ceaseless cut and thrust of the struggle for electronic supremacy that began in the 1930s withthe invention of radar ‘Since then, turn and turn about, attacker has tied to blind defender's radar, defender to peer through a snowstorm of jamming and chat, As radars and communications transmitters, have grown more powerful and capable, sotheir distinctive emissions have come toreveal more to the airborne eavesdroppers aboard patroling electronic-inteligence (ELINT) aicrat. The complex invisible world of the electromagnetic spectrum is now a battle ground just as vital as national airspace or acean convoy lane, and in many ways the key to victory lies ints ‘domination ‘Beginning with the RAF's night bomber offensive of the Second World ‘War and continuing in Vietnam and the Middle East, the world’s air forces have learned, oten the hard way, how to read’ enemy transmissions, conceal themselves by means ofjamming, chal, flares and decoys, and devise tactics and ‘weapons to enable them o evade elences or detect and destroy attackers, The see-saw nature o this struggle was best demonstrated in Vietnam, where USAF strike formations were escorted by Wild Weasels capable of pinpointing surface-to-air missile- ‘uidance radars and destroying them With anti-radiation missiles, the radar Crews realised that hey had been spotted and responded by switching off, their missiles were without guidance and the attackers flew on unmolested. But then the defenders devised their own ‘simple countermeasure, switching on theirsystems briefly andintermitently to prevent the Weasels from locking on. ‘The USAF riposted by trying to find the sites visually and attacking them with Maverick TV-guided missiles and ‘smart bombs. So itcontinued: the ‘cerebral but deadly game of black-box chess, continued on back fap | | $17.95 |World Electronic Warfare AircraftWorld Electronic : Warfare Ai rcraftCopyright © Martin Streetly 1983 Second impression 1984 First published in the United Kingdom in 1983 by Jane's Publishing Company Limited 238 City Road, London EC1V 2PU ISBN 07106 01662 Distributed in the Philippines and the USA and its dependencies by Jane's Publishing inc, 135 West 50th Street, New York NY 10020 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, transmitted in any form or by any means electrical, mechanical or photocopied, recorded or otherwise without prior permission of the publisher. Computer typesetting by Method Limited, Woodford Green, Essex Printed in the United Kingdom by Biddles Limited, Guildford, SurreyContents Introduction 7 Glossary 13 Frequency/wavelength designations 14 US EWf equipment nomenclature 15 US military organisation acronyms 16 Alphabetical list of types 17-108 Anti-radiation weapons 113 US airborne EWf equipment 117 Soviet radars 120 Addenda 122 Index 123| Guarded by military security, clouded by incomprehen- sible acronyms and code names, and invested with half- truths and misconceptions, electronic warfare (EW) is generally presented as being more akin to black magic than to an exact military science. In fact the reverse is true, for the use of electronics as a weapon is a relatively straightforward business based on fundamental scientific principles. The confusion arises not so much from the hardware itself but rather from the military community's reluctance to discuss the subject and its deliberate use of obscure names and descriptions, all in the name of | security The aim of this book is to catalogue the world’s electronic warfare aircraft in a clear and understandable manner, presenting only that information which has been firmly authenticated. World Electronic Warfare Aircraft does not detail the techniques of EWt except when to do 0 adds to the description of a particular aircraft. It relies solely on public sources and has had no official backing or help, Indeed, in some cases quite the opposite is true’ according to the UK's Ministry of Defence, the RAF does not operate ELINT aircraft. | have for many years maintained a watching brief on the world's aviation press, manufacturers’ releases, semi-official publications and other available and not so available sources to build Up the basic data on which the book is based. To those friends who have pointed me in the right direction or who have come up with the right piece when the jigsaw seemed impossible to solve, many thanks. have tried to include all those aircraft with a primary military electronic role, This may have led to some apparently idiosyneratic inclusions but has opened the field to some interesting types that lie on the borders of the electronic-warfare community. The Jane's yearbooks have formed a major infor mation source and, along with the US Electronic Warfare Magazine/International Countermeasures Hand- book and aviation journals such as Flight and Air International, can be recommended with confidence to the student of this subject. The observant reader will notice that the technical specifications of the various airframes do not have a common format. This unfortunately hinders comparison, bbut | have chosen to use those sources | consider to be the most accurate rather than include unified but sometimes approximate data, Again, the drawings are Introduction not to a common scale but are, | believe, an accurate representation of the machines they illustrate. In all cases scales indicate feed Finally, although | am reluctant to single out indivi- duals, | would like to recognise particularly the assis- tance’ of Lindsay Peacock, whose advice on American aircraft has been invaluable, and Brendan Gallagher of Jane's. If any reader has information, source material, corrections, photographs or anything else relevant to a revised edition of this book, I can be contacted via Jane's Publishing Company Ltd, 238 City Road, London EC1V 2PU. Martin Streetly London, 1983,The three AEW options open to the RAF and FAA. Top inset: The Shackleton AEW2 displays its main sensors, the ANJAPS-20 radar in the belly radome and the Orange Harvest ‘broadband D/F receiver head on the upper fuselage, Main, picture: The Nimrod AEW3, which is to replace the ‘Shackleton during the late 1980s. Of note are the nose and tail radomes for the Marconi search radar and the wingtip pods for the Loral ARI.18240/ 1 passive ELINT system. Bottom inset: The AEW Sea King, introduced into RN service immediately, after the Falklands War. Displayed are the inflatable radome {for the AEW radar and the various ESM receivers distributed about the airframe (Flight) 10ren yer Dac a al Le Tea ae aaa araiSoviet” en Surveillance A signiticant part of the So. reece constant surveilance of NATO's electronic. Shodowing neva etorcaes ond probing deended eapace (moD/Swecleh A Forelchaff Lightweight airborne reflectors, usually made of aluminium foil or coated glass, used to produce a spurious response in a given radar system. COMINT Communications intelligence. Data deduced from the study of hostile signals traffic. Also known as SIGINT, signals intelligence. ECCM ‘Electronic counter-countermeasures. Measures designed to nullify offensive action against a friendly electromagnetic source ECM Electronic countermeasures. Action against an electromagnetic source, designed to render it ineffective, ELINT Electronic intelligence. The result of evaluating data derived from electronic reconnaissance. electronic reconnaissance The detection, identification and location of foreign electromagnetic emissions, ESM Electronic support measures. The interception, location and identification, for immediate tactical use, of foreign electromagnetic emissions. EW Early warning, The long-range detection of hostile objects by radar. EW! Electronic warfare. The use of electromagnetic emissions 2s a weapon or intelligence source. frequency The number of cycles per second between a positive and negative value produced in the electro- magnetic medium by an oscillator. frequency, spot A particular and precisely defined frequency, hhertz (Hz) The unit of measurement for frequency. 1Hz = 1 cycle per second. IFF Identification friend or foe. A radar transponder giving a coded reply if triggered by a friendly radar. jammer A transmitter used to disrupt radio or radar transmissions. jamming, barrage Simultaneous jamming measures over a broad range of frequencies. jamming, CW The transmission of constant-amplitude, constant-frequency, unmodulated signals designed to alter the signal-to-noise ratio in a given radar receiver. jamming, deception The deliberate radiation or re- radiation of transmissions to generate false information within a given radar system. jamming, mechanical The use of devices such as chaff to generate false information within a given radar system, jamming, noise Direct AM or FM noise on a carrier frequency for the purpose of saturating the receiver of a given radar system. jamming, noise-modulated Random electronic noise Glossary designed to increase the background noise within a receiver to a level at which the desired signal cannot be perceived jamming, passive The useof reflectors toreturnspurious and confusing signals to a transmitting radar set, jamming, spot Measures against a transmission on a precise frequency, modulation The impression of the essential characteris- tics of a signal onto a carrier wave. noise An undesired electromagnetic radiation in a transmission channel or device. PRF Pulse-repetition frequency. The number of pulses making up a radar transmission in a fixed unit of time. RINT - Ragiation intelligence. Data gathered from electro- magnetic emission sources other than radio and radar ‘equipment. wavelength Distance between successive crests of an electromagnetic wave. The higher the wavelength, the lower the frequency. 13‘Frequency/wavelength designations The NATO signatories use a unified code to identity frequency and wavelength ranges, as does the Warsaw Pact. Some confusion arises with the NATO system, as there has been a revision in recent times and many references use both forms. Current NATO designations ‘Acband 0.1-0.25GHz, wavelengths 300-125em B-band 0.28-0.5GHz, 125-60em C-band 0.5-1,0GHz, 60-30em D-band 1.0-2.0GHz, 30-15em E-band 2.0-3,0GHz, 15-10em Feband 3.0-4.0GHz, 10-7.5cm G-band 4.0-6.0GHz, 7.5-Scm H-band 6.0-8.0GHz, 5-3.75cm Ieband 8.0-10.0GHz, 3.75-3em J-band 10.0-20,.0GHz, 3-1.5¢m K-band 20.0-40.0GHz, 1.5-0.75cm L-band 40.0-60.0GHz, 0.75-0.5cm M-band —_60.0-100.0GHz, 0.5-0.3em Current Warsaw Pact designations 8-band 0.1-0.3GHz, 300-100em S-band 0.3-3,0GHz, 100-10em WO-band ——3.0-30.0GH2, 10-1.25cm T-band —_-30.0-100,0GHz, 1.25-0.3em Previous NATO designations VHF 0.1-0.3GHz, 300-100em UHF 0.3-1.0GHz, 100-30em Lband 1.0-2.0GHz, 30-15em S-band 2.0-4.0GHz, 15-7.5cm C-band 4.0-8.0GHz, 7.5-375em X-band 8.0-12.5GH2, 3.75-2.5em 12.5-17,.5GHz, 25-1.75cm 17.5-25.0GHz, 1.75-1.25em 25.0-40.0GHz, 1.25-0.75¢m 40.0-100.0GHz, 0.75-0.3em Frequencies relating to communications equipment ‘mentioned in this book include: Very Low Frequency (VLF) 3-30KHz High Frequency (HF) 3-30MH2 Very High Frequency (VHF) 30-300MHz Ultra High Frequency (UHF) 300MH2-3GHz 14US EWf equipment nomenclature Most US EW equipment is identified by a designation which describes its function and development history. Example: | AN/APN—288 | P First modification to the basic design ‘Twenty-eighth type of such equipment used | Purpose, inthis case navigational. | ‘Type in tis case radar. instalation, inthis ease airborne iA standard USAF/USN/US Army designation, ‘The code letters nave the folowing meanings Installation A Piloted aircraft. B Submarine, D Pilotless aircraft (drone). F Fixed, ground. G General ground use. K Amphibious. MMobile, ground. P Portable. $ Water, T Transportable, ground. U Utility. V Vehicular, ground. W Water surface/underwater combination. Z Piloted/ pilotiess aircraft combination. Type A Invisible light/eat radiation. € Carrier. D Radiac. | G Telegraph’teletype. | Interphone/public address. J Electromechanical/wire. K Telemetering. L Countermeasures. M Meteorological. N Sound in air. P Radar. Q Sonar/underwater sound. R Radio. S Special/combinations of types. T Telephone (wire) V Visual/visual light. W Armament. X Facsimile/television. ¥ Data-processing, | Purpose B Bombing. © Communications. D Direction- finding/reconnaissance/surveillance. E Ejection/release. G Fire control/searchlight direction. H Recording/reproducing. K Computing M Maintenance/test assemblies. N Navaid Q Special/combination of purposes. R Receiving/passive/detecting. $ Detecting/range and bearing/search. T Transmitting. W Automatic/remote | control (of flight). X Identification/recognitionAccs AEWCW AEWTULANT AFB ARS ARW AWAC css DSEG Dses Ecs Fws, NAS RS RVAW SAC SRS SRW sw TAC ToCs Tews Tews TFS TrTS TEW TRW USAF usas usMc USN vA va vAW 16 ‘Airborne Command and Control vew ‘Squadron (USAF) ve Airborne Early Warning and Control! ve Wing (USAF) vMaQ Airborne Early Warning Training Unit VMCJ Atlantic (USN) Air Force Base (USAF) vp Airborne Relay Squadron (USAF) ves Airborne Relay Wing (USAF) va Airborne Warning and Control (USAF) WW Composite Service Squadron (USAF) VX Defence Systems Evaluation Group wws (USAF) Defence Systems Evaluation Squadron (USAF) Electronic Countermeasures Squadron (USAF) Fighter Weapons School (USAF) Naval Air Station (USN) Reconnaissance Squadron (USAF) Reserve Early Warning Squadron (USN) Strategic Air Command (USAF) Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron (USAF) Strategic Reconnaissance Wing (USAF) Strategic Wing (USAF) Tactical Air Command (USAF) Tactical Deployment and Control Squadron (USAF) Tactical Electronic Warfare Group (USAF) Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (USAF) ‘Tactical Fighter Squadron (USAF) Tactical Fighter Training Squadron (USAF) ‘Tactical Fighter Wing (USAF) Tactical Reconnaissance Wing (USAF) United States Air Force United States Army Security (Agency) United States Marine Corps United States Navy Attack Squadron (USN) Electronic Warfare Squadron (USN) Early Warning Squadron (USN) Early Warning Squadron (USN) Composite Squadron (USN) Fighter Squadron (USN) Electronic Warfare Squadron (USMC) Composite Reconnaissance Squadron (USMC) Patrol Squadron (USN) Patrol Bomber Squadron (USN) ELINT Squadron (USN) Early Warning Squadron (USN) Trials Squadron (USN) Wild Weasel Squadron (USAF) US military organisation acronymsAlphabetical list of typesAeritalia G.222VS Aeritalia has developed an ELINT version of the G.222 transport under this designation. First flown on March 9, 1978, the VS is characterised by a ventral nose radome and a small saucer fairing atop the fin. Equipment for signals detection, processing and data recording is racked along the starboard side of a modified cargo hold, and there is seating for up to ten operators. Flight crew comprises pilot and co-pilot, and the type is powered by two Tyne turboprops. Current estimates (1981) indicate that the Italian Air Force has a requirement for 44 G.222s of all types, including the ELINT version. The G.222 has a span of 94ft 2in (28.70m) and a length of 74ft 5¥zin (22.70m) Aeritalia G.222VS 18Antonov An-12 Cub Family role ELINT/EWE platform Variants Cub-B, Cub-C. ‘Cub-B Role ELINT platform, Powerplant Four Al-20K turboprops. Dimensions Span: 124ft 8in (38.00m). Overall length: 108tt TvAin (31.10m). Overall height: 34tt 6¥sin (10.53m). Performance Maximum level speed: 482mph (777km/hr). Service ceiling: 33,500ft (10,200m). Range with maximum fuei: 3,540 miles (5,700km). Description ELINT derivative of the Cub-A transport: first identified during the early 1970s. Retains the tailturret (two 28mm NR-23 cannon when armed) of the earlier type. There seem to be at least two sub-variants of Cub-B, distinguished by differing antenna/tairing configurations and cabin window arrangements, The dimensions and performance figures relate to the Cub-A transport Cub-c Role EW platform Powerplant As Cub-B. Description EWi derivative of the Cub-A transport; first identified during the early 1970s, Features a solid taiicone (housing EW! equipment) in place of the earlier type's tal turret, and additional EWT pods faired into the forward fuselage and the ventral surfaces. Notes Cub-B is reported to be in service with the Soviet Air Force, and Cub-C is used by both the Air Force and the Naval Air Arm. Cub-B has been encountered over the Baltic and the Indian Ocean (in some cases carrying quasi- Aeroflot markings), suggesting a primarily maritime role, while the type's size and performance indicate that itwould be used for stand-off operations. Gub-C has appeared in Egyptian national markings as well as those of the USSR the Egyptian-marked aircraft were probably being flown by Soviet crows, Latest estimates (1981) put atotal of six Cub- Bs and Cs in service with the Soviet Air Force. Avro Lincoln B.II The RAF's last piston-engined heavy bomber, the Lincoln was also used extensively as an EWI/ELINT platform from the early 1950s until 1963, Units known to have operated the type on such duties are as follows: 192 Squadron ELINT duties. Lincoln B.lls 1951 to August 1958, including RE405, SS715, SX942, 952 and 980, 199 Squadron EW! duties. Lincoln B.lls 1951 to 1956, including RA684, RF337 and 338, SX926, WD122 and 131 Central Signals Establishment EW! trials. Lincoln 8.lI3(?) to 1963, including RF505, SS715, SX942 and 948, WO132 and 148. In its standard bomber form, the type was powered by four Merlin 68A piston engines and had a span ‘of 120ft (36.58m) and a length of 78ft 3¥/sin (23.85m). Top to bottom Antonov An-12 Cub-B, Cub-B alternative configuration, Cub-C 19Avro (Hawker Siddeley) Shackleton AEW2 Role Airborne early warning (AEW) platform Powerplant Four Griffon 58 piston engines. Dimensions Span: 120ft (36.58m). Length: 67ft din (26.62m). Height: 16ft Qin (5.1m) Performance Maximum speed: 260mph (416km/hr). Patrol endurance: up to 10hr (see Description). Crew complement Pilot, co-pilot, flight engineer, radio operator, navigator and three radar operators. Known electronic equipment AN/APS-20(F)1 airborne search radar, AN/APX-7 IFF, Orange Harvest broadband direction-finding system, two V/UHF, two UHF and two HF ‘communications sets, and Tacan and Doppler navigation equipment. Production Twelve conversions from Shackleton MR.2 Phase 3 airframes. RAF serials: WL741, 745, 747, 754, 756. 787, 790, 793 and 795, WR960, 963 and 965. Known user units No 8 Squadron, RAF Strike Command (from 1972) Description Conversions by Hawker Siddeley at Woodford and Bitteswell . Prototype (WL745) made its first flight on September 30, 1971. Since service introduction (1972) Shackleton AEW2s have had airborne moving target indicator units and additional fuel tanks (1973) installed the latter modification raised patrol endurance to 12-14hr. Three radar consoles carried aft of the front spar. PPIs are calibrated for 50, 100, 150 and 200-mile (80, 161, 241 and 322km) ranges and are ground-stabilised, with north always being at the top of the screen. Orange Harvest D/F set used to give bearings on jamming signals. Notes The emergence during the 1960s of a Soviet attack capability against both the Atlantic and Eastern seaboards of the UK prompted an RAF requirement for an AEW ‘gap- filler. Government economic policy ruled out the pro- duction from scratch of an AEW platform, so to achieve an interim solution the AN/APS-20 radar from redundant FAA, Gannet AEW.3s (see page 58) was mated to existing Shackleton airframes The resultant system has proved to be far from ideal, especially in its lack of height-finding capability. The Shackleton itself provides a noisy and tiring environment for the radar operators, and there are not enough aircraft to produce full radar cover. The Shackleton AEW2 is to be replaced by the Nimrod AEWS (see page 23) during 1983- 85 Avro (Hawker Siddeley) Shackleton AEW2 in its initial configuration and showing the Orange Harvest antenna 1 and the AN/APS-20 radome 2 Avro (Hawker Siddeley) Vulcan B2 During the Falklands War of April-June 1982 two Vulcan B2s (XM597 and 598) were modified for the radar- suppression role. Wing racks (13ft [3.96m] long) for anti- radiation missiles were fabricated at RAF Waddington and attached to the aircraft by means of the pick-up points for the never used Skybolt ballistic missile pylons. initially it was proposed to use the AS.37 Martel (see page 116), a single round being carried to port, but trials in early May 1982 raised concern over the weapon's ability to withstand the rigours of the proposed operational sorties. Accordingly, attention switched to the AGM-45 Shrike and a definitive fit of four such missiles was prepared. The two aircraft deployed to Ascension on May 27 and XMS597 made the first Vulcan anti-radar sortie against the Falklands (code-named Black Buck 4) on the night of May 28. This mission had to be aborted when a Victor tanker's drogue failed during refuelling. Two nights later a second sortie (Black Buck 5) was despatched, with a TPS-43 radar fas the primary target. This operation is believed to have damaged the radar and was co-ordinated with a Harrier strike. The final suppression sortie (Black Buck 6) was flown on. June 2, again by XMS97. Nearly an hour was spent over the target area, but with little success: the Argentinian method of operating their radars prevented the AGM-45s from locking on. On the return flight XM597's refuelling probe Avro Shackleton AEW2, serial WR960, of No 8 Squadron, RAF Strike Command, showing to advantage the Orange Harvest head and the AN/APS-20 radome. (Lindsay Peacock) wa 20fractured, forcing the crew to divert to Rio de Janeiro. The Brazilians held the aircraft and crew for a week before allowing them to return to Ascension, The Black Buck radar-suppression sorties were flown with six-man crews (pilot, co-pilot, navigator, radar Navigator, electronics officer and supernumerary pilot). In Addition to the missile modifications, the Vulcans carried two auxiliary fuel tanks in the bomb bay. Now phased out apart from six tanker conversions, the standard Vulcan B2 is powered by four Olympus 301 turbojets and has a span and length of 111ft (33.83 m) and 99ft T1in (30.45m) respectively. Avro Canada CF-100 Mk 5C and 5D Family role EW* training platform, Variants CF-100 Mk 5C, Mk 5D CF-100 Mk 5C Role EWf training platform, Powerplant Two Orenda 11 turbojets. Crew complement Pilot and EWf operator. Known user units 104 Composite Unit (1957-59), Elec- tronic Warfare Unit (1959-67) and 414 (EW) Squadron (1967-7). Description An unknown number (see Notes) of con- versions from CF-100 Mk 5 airframes, The SC carried radar jammers and chaff dispensers, the latter being mounted on wing pylons, Most aircraft of this type have been upgraded to 5D standard. CF-100 Mk 5D Role EWI training platform Powerplant Two Orenda 11 turbojets. Dimensions Span: S4ft 10in (16.7m). Length: 54ft 2in (16.50m). Height: 15ft 6¥/2in (4.71m), Weights Gross: 40,000Ib (18,145kg} Performance Cruising speed: S0mph (815km/hr) at up to 45,000ft (13,716m). Climb to 40,000ft (12,192m): Smin. Crew complement Pilot and EWt operator. Known user units Electronic Warfare Unit (1959-67) and 414 (EW) Squadron (1967-81). Description An unknown number (see Notes) of con- versions from CF-100 Mk 5(?) and 5C airframes. The SD is essentially an upgraded 5C with improved EW! equipment allowing communications jamming in addition to anti- radar operations. Chaff dispensers on wing pylons. The EW! gear, believed to weigh some 1,000Ib (454kQ), is housed in the Mk 5's gun-pack housing, and 6,000Ib ‘Avro Canada CF-100 Mk 5D showing the underwing chatt dispensers 1 (2,720kg) of additional fuel is carried. The 6D is not fitted with the Mk 5 Sit (0.9m) parallel wingtip extensions. Notes The Avro CF-100 Mk 5C and D EWf platforms have performed a function similar to that of the American EB-57 family (see page 86) in exercising the Canadian and related US air defence systems. The first EW! conversion (18225) was produced during late 1956 and was followed by a further 80 aircraft. Canadian Air Force (CAF) serials: 18149, 173, 465, 472 (100472), 474, 476 (100476), 480, 482, 486, 488, 493 (190493), 500-504 ‘(including 100500 and 100504), 506, 513,517, 525, 551,556, 614, 650, 661, 662,670, 673-675, 677, 680, 746, 757, 772 (100772), 778-780 (including 100780), and 782-792 (including 100780, 782, 783, 784, 785, 789, 790 and 792). The serials shown in brackets are those of aircraft renumbered in October 1970. Aircraft 149 was converted from a Mk 3D airframe, 173 from a 38 and 225 from a 4A, The remaining 48 aircraft were all based on Mk 5 airframes. A the peak of the fleet's activity as many as 28 EW! CF- 100s were serving with various units of the CAF. This figure remained fairly constant throughout the 1960s but then fell until only seven aircratt remained operational by July 1981 The type has now been phased out of service (October 1981) and is being partially replaced by @ number of Dassault-Breguet CC-117 Falcons (see page 42). The EWT equipment carried by the various ‘faker’ CF- 400s has been described as ‘effective’ against the Al radars of the F-101B, F-102 and F-108 interceptors, and capable of ‘distorting and degrading’ various radars associated with the SAGE defensive system and the Hawk and Nike- Hercules missiles. A radar warning receiver with a visual display appears to have been used, and itis likely that most of the electronics were of American origin. 21British Aircraft Corporation (BAe) Canberra T17 Role EWS training platform Powerplant Two Avon 101 turbojets. Dimensions Span: 63ft 11¥in (19.50m). Length: 6ft Gin (18.96m). Height: 15ft 8in (4.7m). Weights Empty: 22,200Ib (10,070kg). Maximum take-off: 46,0001b (20,866Ka) Performance Maximum speed: 570mph (912km/hr) at 40,000ft (12,192m). Operational ceiling: 48,000ft (14,680m). Range on internal fuel: 2,656 miles (4,2744m) Crew complement Pilot, navigator and systems operator. Production Believed to be 24 conversions from Canberra 8.2 airframes. Known RAF serials: WO955, WF890 and916, WHE46, 664, 665, 740, 863, 872 (last conversion), 874 (involved in @ mid-air collision on January 29, 1971) and 902, WJ565, 576, 581, 607, 625, 690, 633, 977 (first conversion), 981, 886 and 988 (struck off charge during 1969), WK102 and 111 Known user units No 360 Squadron (from 1966) and No 361 Squadron (1967). Description An EWf training derivative of the Canberra 8.2 produced between 1965 and 1968, The T17 is reported to be equipped for both radar and communications jamming and carries some 2,000Ib (907.2kg) of electronics in the bomb bay. The small radomes grouped around the nose and tail are believed to house antennae for jamming equipment covering the 8-10GHz band and surveillance receivers, while the larger nose radome possibly covers the 2-6GHz band. In addition, there is a blade aerial for 1- 2GHz-band jamming, chaff dispensers in modified tip tanks, an on-board tape recorderfor communications jam- ming, and Loran aerial above the port wing. Operations are described as being flown at altitudes of between 5,000 and 16,000ft (1,524-4,572m) and at speeds of around 288mph (460km/hr) Notes The Canberra T17 is designed to provide realistic EW! training for the RAF and the Fleet Air Arm. Exercises 22.Top ELINT-configured English Electric Canberra B.2 showing a modified bulged fin top 1 and undertuselage ‘sensor fairings/antennae 2. Bottom Canberra T17 showing the cooling intakes/vents for the mission electronics mounted below the bomb-bay doors 3 include one-on-one interceptions with RAF Phantoms and FAA Harriers, six-aircraft sorties against UK air-defence radars, SAM-related operations, and the exercising of the Royal Navy's surface radar systems. Some 20 T17s are currently (1981) in service with 360 Squadron, 361 having existed only for a very short period during 1967. 360 ‘Squadron is a joint FAA/RAF unit, originally drawing its crews trom the FAA’s 831 Squadron and the RAF's 97 ‘Squadron. In addition to the T17, a number of modified but undesignated Canberras have been used for EW/ELINT duties by the RAF. 192/51 Squadron operated a number of ELINT conversions of Canberra 8.2/B6s (including WHE70 and 698, WJ640, WT302 and 310) from the mi 1950s, and 51 Squadron is reported to have had a number Of ELINT B.6s as late as the mid-1970s. In addition to these aircraft, between 1954 and 1957 199 Squadron operated a number of Canberra B.2s which may havehad an EWf role. BAe Nimrod AEW3 and R1 Family role Airborne warning and control system (AWACS)/ELINT platform. Variants AEW3, R1 Nimrod AEW3 Role AWACS platform. Powerplant Four RB.168-20 Spey Mk 250 turbofans Dimensions Span: 115i tin (85.08m). Length: 137ft 8'/ain (41.97m). Height: 35ft (10.67m) Performance Endurance: more than 10hr. ‘operating height: about 42,000 (12,800m). Crew complement Fiight crew comprising pilot, co-pilot and engineer, and tactical crew of one communications officer and five systems operators. Maximum Nimrod AEWS general layout: 1 Rear radome access door 2 ESM wingtip receiver antenna 3 Auxiliary power unit 4 Aft pressure bulkhead 5 HF trailing aerial 6 Aircrew baggage compartment 7 Weather radar 8 Galley 9 Communications (comms) cabinet 10 Liquid cooling (electronics) system 11 Radar transmitter 12 Radar transmitter control unit 18 Comms cabinet 14 Comms cabinet 15 AEW operator's station/console 15a Comms officer's station/console 16 Avionics cabinet 17 Flight deck (pilot, co-pilot and flight engineer) 18 Pitot 19 Forward radar/IFF scanner 20 Cooling system cabinet 21 Navigator's station/console 22 Flight spares stowage 23/24 Comms cabinets 25 Main power cabinet 26 HF aerial tuning unit 27 Scanner control/ESM cabinet 28 IF processor cabinet 29 Data-processing cabinet 30/31/32 Radar-processing cabinets 33 Cooling system cabinet 34 HF aerial tuning unit 35 Crew rest area 36 top to bottom Baggage compartment, fan housing and radio altimeter cabinet 37 Main entry door 38 HF wire aerial 39 Wardrobe 40 Toilet/washroom 41 Dielectric fin fairing 42 Alt radar/IFF scanner 23Known electronic equipment Search Radar: The Nimrod AEWS is fitted with two Marconi 2-4GHz-band pulse-Doppler radars mounted fore and, aft on the airframe, each covering a 180° arcin azimuth, The radar has an agile PRF/pulsewidth capability to maximise detection over varying terrains, and can be used against airborne targets or shipping. ‘ARI-18240/1: Passive ELINT system built by Loral. Two ‘wingtip-mounted antenna fairings each house 16 planar spiral arrays and two LRU-1 receivers, Each sixteen- antenna group is divided equally between low and high- band capability. The systemis believed tohave an upper frequency limit of about 18GHz. Jubilee Guardsman: IFF interrogator build by Cossor. The IFF arrays are integral with the two radar scanners. Information from these sources, plus navigational and externally originated data, is fed into a digital processor, which correlates it and produced visual displays for the systems operators. Communications Nimrod AEW3 has an extensive communciations suite, including LF, HF and UHF radio plus VHF/UHF secure voice link and secure digital data links. Operator workload has been minimised by incorporating a high degree of automation, and there are eleven transmit/receive stations and ten listening-only positions. The optimum radio/ antenna combination for any given communications task can be selected and undergoes automatic test before use Navigation ‘The AEWS has a navigation suite similar to that of the Nimrod MR2 maritime reconnaissance aircraft but with certain improvements and duplications. The MR2 suite includes a Smiths SFS.6 automatic flight control system incorporating an SEP.6 autopilot, a Hoffman ARN-72 Tacan and a Honeywell AN/APN-171(V) radar altimeter. Production Eleven conversions from existing Nimrod MR1 airframes Known user units Expected to enter service with No 8 ‘Squadron at RAF Waddington between 1983 and 1985. Description A replacement for the Shackelton AEW.2 (see page 20). Development began during the late 1960s, with a converted Comet 4C (XW626) acting as an initial trials, platform. This converted aircraft first flew on June 28, 1977, and was fitted with the nose radar and radome only. Three further development aircraft have been produced from Nimrod MR1 airframes, along with a complete systems ground rig. The first of these aircraft is a communications system testbed and began trials during February 1980. The second aircraft (XZ286) carries the full radar, IFF and passive receiver suite and began development flying during July 1980. At the time of going to press there are four AEW3s flying, including the first production aircraft, which was delivered during March 1982. Radar trials which began in May 1982, are reported to have produced encouraging results and the RAF is scheduled to receive its first aircraft in mid-1983. Crew training is to begin late in that year at RAF Waddington, with No Squadron having a full complement of aircraft by 1985. rod RY Role ELINT platform Powerplant As AEWS Dimensions Span: 114ft 10in (35,00m). Height: 2att8t/ain (9.08m) Weights Empty: 86,0001b (99,000kg). Maximum take-off 177,5001b (80,510). Performance Maximum speed: 575mph (926km/hr). Ferry range: 5,755 miles (9,265km) Production Three conversions from Nimrod MRt air- frames. RAF serials: XW664-666, Known user units No 51 Squadron (1971 to dato) Description ELINT sub-variant based on the Nimrod MR1 and characterised by the removal of the MAD housing, the installation of radomes at this station and in the port wing leading-edge fairing, and additional antennae mounted about the airframe. The first aircraft of this type (XWE64) was delivered to 51 Squadron on July 7, 1971, and Top BAe Nimrod AEWS in systems test configuration, Bottom Nimrod R1 24underwent an extensive modification programme which was completed in October 1973. During this period XW655 and 666 were delivered for conversion and the type was formally commissioned into service on May 10, 1974, Replacing the Comet R.2 (see page 44), the Nimrod R1 is used for ELINT sorties (officially described as ‘radio and radar calibration work’) around the Warsaw Pact’s western margins, The type has been reported over the Baltic and is receiving the RAF's ‘Hemp’ maritime reconnaissance scheme. Beechcraft YQU-22A and QU-22B Family role Sensor relay drone Variants YQU-22A, QU-228, YQU-22A Role Sensor relay drone, Powerplant One 10-520-8 piston engine driving a three- bladed, low-rpm ‘quiet’ propeller Crew complement Systems operator and check pilot Production Six aircraft. AF serials: 68-10531 to 36, Description Beech Model PD.1079. Drone variant of the civilian Bonanza light aircraft used by the USAF to evaluate the concept of a remotely piloted sensor relay for the Igloo White programme. QU-22B Role Sensor relay drone Powerplant One 10-520-B piston engine driving a three- bladed, low-rpm ‘quiet’ propeller. Dimensions Span: 32tt 10in (10.05m). Length: 26tt 4in (803m) Weights Gross: 3,600!b (1,633kg). Performance Maximum speed: 204mph (826km/hr). Crew complement Systems operator (see Remarks) Production 27 aircraft. AF serials: 69-7693 to 705 (13) and 70-1535 to 548 (14) Known user units Believed to be 553rd AW. Description Operational development of the YQU-22A associated with the Pave Eagle Il programme. Fitted with wingtip tanks. Used in Vietnam as a sensor relay platform in the Igloo White campaign. Although designed to be flown remotely with only a systems operator aboard ‘operational QU-22Bs were piloted. The type was also used as a forward air control (FAC) platiorm, but high losses led to the QU-228's withdrawal from service and the surviving aircraft were placed in storage. Notes One of the more interesting products of the Vietnam War, the QU-22 series was designed to replace the EC- 421R (see page 75) as the airborne relay segment in the Igloo White programme. Igloo White was the air-dropped sensor network laid down in Southern Laos to monitor Vietcong supply movements Several types of surveillance equipment were used in this campaign, one of the more important being the Air Delivered Seismic Intruder Device (ADSID) This was a ballistically shaped cylinder 36in (90cm) long which buried itself in the ground alter a free fall. Contact triggered the onboard sensors, which recorded ground vibration, and a 4in_(12.5cm) transmitter aerial. Once operational, an ADSID worked for up 0.45 days. Compared with the standard Bonanza, the QU-22 featured a revised engine, a position for the systems Beecheraft QU-228 operator and check pilot, Sperry Rand drone control gear comprising a stabilisation/control/cammand unit and a navigational sub-system, and mission electronics com- prising reception gear, transponders and a data-relay link. Beechcraft RU-21 Ute Family role SIGINT/EW! platform. Variants RU-21A, 8, C, D, E, Hand J RU-21A, Role SIGINT/EWt platform. Powerplant Two PT6A-20/T74-CP-700 turboprops. Production Four conversions from U-21A airframes. Army serials: 67-18112 to 115, RU-21B Role SIGINT/EWT platform Powerplant Two PTSA-29/T74-CP-702 turboprops. Weights Maximum take-off: 10,900Ib (4,944kg) Production Three aircratt. Army serials: 67-18077, 087 and 093, Description Beech Model 65-A90-2 RU-21C Role SIGINT/EWF platform Powerplant As RU-21B. Weights Maximum take-off: as RU-218. Production Two aircraft. Army serials: 67-18085 and 089. Description Beech Model 65-A90-3. Generally similar to the RU-218, with a revised antenna array and updated mission equipment, RU-21D Role SIGINT/EWF platform Powerplant As RU:21A. Production 16 new aircraft (70-15875 to 890) and 18 conversions fram U-214 airframes (67-18104 to 111 (8 ] and 119 to 128 [ 10 ]). Description Similar to the RU-21A, with a revised cockpit and control layout. Used operationally in Vietnam, RU-21E Role SIGINT/EWT platform, Powerplant As RU-21A, Dimensions Span: 45ft 10%/sin (13.98m). Length: 35ft Bin (10.83m), Height: 14ft 2¥/ein (4.33m), Weights Maximum: 9,650b (4,380kg). Performance Operational cruising speed: about 250mph (402km/hr). Service ceiling: about 26,000ft (7,930m). Range: 1,160 miles (1,866km) Crew complement Two pilots and two systems operators. 25Production Four conversions from U-21A and RU-21D airframes. Description Beech Model 65-A90-4. Believed to have been used operationally in Vietnam under the Left Foot programme. Also associated with Guardrail. The dimen- sions and performance figures are generally applicable to the whole family, with the exception of the RU-21J, RU-21H Role SIGINT/EWf platform, Powerplant As RU-21A, Weights Gross: 10,200Ib (4,630kg), Production 12 aircraft. Known Army serials: 70-15876, 880, 887 and 899. Description Generally similar to the RU-21E, with revised wingtips and undercarriage doors. Associated with the Guardrail and Left Foot programmes. RU-21J Role SIGINT/EW! platform Powerplant Two PT6A-41 turboprop. Dimensions Span: 54ft 6in (16.61m). Length: 43tt Sin (1334m, excluding rear antenna). Height) 14ft 10in (4.52m) Weights Gross: 15,0001b (6,810ka) Performance Maximum speed. 333mph (536km/hr) at 15,0001t.(4,570m). Service ceiling: 35,000ft (10,668m) Range: 1,370 miles (2,204km) Production Three aircraft. Army serials: 72-21058 to 060, Description Derived from the civilian Super King Air 200, Associated with the Cefly Lancer programme, The performance figures apply to the unmodified Super King Air 200. Notes The aircratt of the RU-21 family serve with the US, Army's Security Agency as airborne platforms in various electronic surveillance programmes, as follows 26 Cetly Lancer Airborne emitter locator and D/F equipment first reported during 1972. Fitted to three RU-21s (J?). The carriers are said to be capable of ‘minimally manned’ sorties, suggesting that they can operate as drones in the same way as the QU-22 (see page 25). Cefirm Leader Detection, location and jamming equipment combined with an inertial navigation system. Development was begun during the late 1960s for application to the Mohawk (see page 71) and RU-21. Equipment contractors include McDonnell Douglas. Gefirm Leader is a follow-on to the Crazy Dog programme Cefirm Lion Similar to Leader but with different frequency coverage Cetirm Scavenger Communications code-breaking equipment for the RU-21 Guardrail Automatic, remotely operated SIGINT/D/F equipment carried by RU-21E and H. Operational since 1970 and used by the US Army in the Federal German Republic and Korea. There have been several updates, the latest being Improved Guardrail. This comprises a counter- measures-resistant wideband data link, a more reliable inertial navigation system, and automatic acquisition and classification (compare with the RV-series Mo- hawks, page 71). Improved Guardrail RU-218 were due to be deployed during 1982 in Western Europe and Korea (eight aircraft in the later location) Left Foot COMINT equipment fitted to the RU-21€ and, possibly D and used operationally in Vietnam, most probably by the 1st USAS Aviation Company, based at Cam Rann Bay between July 1966 and April 1972 (see also EC-47, page 49).Top Beechcraft RU-21D Ute. Bottom RU-21J Ute Bell UH-1H Iroquois configured for SOTAS trials and showing its modified retractable undercarriage 1 and the ‘SOTAS radar's plank antenna 2 There are continuing reports that a number of RU-21s (sub-type unknown) were supplied to Israel during 1975 to monitor troop movements in the Sinai. The Israeli Government has denied this, maintaining that allits Queen Airs are transports. There is however someevidence that at least one such IAF machine (service number 102) has been modified to partial RU-21 standard At the time of going to press there are reports that the US ‘Army is considering a further EWf variant of the Super King Air 200 for communications intelligence work under the designation RC-12D. It is believed that six such aircraft are to be requested during Fiscal Year (FY) 1983. There have also been unconfirmed reports of an ‘EU-21A’ (serials including 66-18000, 013 and 027, and 67-18058) configured for electronic reconnaissance. Bell EH-1H Iroquois Role ELINT platform Powerplant One T53-L-13 turboshatt Dimensions Length: 48ft Tin (1359m). Height: 13ft Sin (408m). Rotor diameter: 48ft (14.63m). Weights Empty: 5,0901b (2,309ka) (4:309k9). Performance Maximum speed: 130mph (209km/hr). Ser- vice ceiling: 12,700t (3,87 1m). Range: 357 miles (575k). Crew complement Two flight crew and an unknown number of systems operators Description Oual development of the UH-1H helicopter to perform MULTEWS and Quick Fix operations for the US ‘Army's Security Agency. MULTEWS aircraft ae fitted with the AN/ALO-143 power-managed radar jammer de- veloped by Northrop. Quick Fix EH-1Hs are configured for the location, classification and disruption of hostile signals traffic. The Quick Fix programme began trials during 1972 with two full equipment suites. Current Quick Fix Iroquois (number unknown) are fitted to the Phase 1A standard which includes the AN/ALQ-151 communications jammer by ESL. In FY 1980 five EH-1Hs fitted with Quick Fix Phase Il equipment (including the AN/APR-39V2 radar warning receiver, the XM-130 chaffflare dispenser and the AN/ALQ-144 infra-red jammer) were requested, and in the following year funds were sought to modify the existing Phase IA equipment to Phase 1B standard. The cursent status of Quick Fix and MULTEWS EH-1Hs is unclear, especially in the light of the substantial orders for the EH-60A Black Hawk (see page 99) Four other UH-1Hs have been modified for field evaluation of the US Army's Standott Target Acquisition System (SOTAS). These aircratt carry a General Dynamics (2) radar, a Sperry four-axis autopilot and a plank-shaped scanner below the cabin Loaded: 9,5001b arBoeing E-3 Sentry Role Airborne warning and command systern (AWACS) platform. Variants E-3A, 8 and C. Powerplant Four TF33-PW-100/100A turbofans Dimensions Span: 145ft Gin (44.42m). Length: 152ft 11in (46.61m). Height: 41ft 4in (12.60m), Weights Maximum take-off: 325,000! (147,400kg) Performance Maximum level speed: 530mph (853km/hr) Service ceiling: over 29,000ft (8,850m). Endurance on station: 6hr, 1,000 miles (1,610km) from base. Crew complement Four flight crew and 13 systems operators. The latter figure can vary, depending on the mission. Known electronic equipment AN/APY-1; Westinghouse primary search radar. Oper- ates in the 3-4GHz band (transmitting low-PRF pulsed and high-PRF pulsed-Doppler signals simultaneously). Radar horizon is 230 miles (370km) at 29,000ft (8,850m), The units liquid-cooled, slotted, planar-array antennais housed in the front section of a dorsal rotodome 30ft (8.1m) in diameter and 6tt (1.8m) thick. The rotodome revolves at 6pm during operations and at 1/3rpm for any other flying. The low-PRF signals are used for long- range detection, while the high-PRF emissions supply data on the altitude of targets. AN/APX-103 Mk 10/Mk 12: Cutler-Hammer IFF system, The Mk 10 element offers an air traffic control facility and the Mk 12 is used for the identification of military targets. The antenna for APX-103 is housed in the rotadome, back to back with that of the AN/APY-1 Other equipment includes the Tadil-A data link (E-3 to E-3, air or ground command posts or ships), the Tadil-C data link (E-3 to interceptor, strike or reconnaissance aircratt), the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS. Hughes-built EW! secure communications between US and NATO command structures), AN/ARN-120 (Omega navigation system) and Collins, Electronic Communi- rcations, E-Systems and Hughes HF, VHF and UHF communications gear. Production USAF: 34 aircraft. Known AF serials: 73-1674 and 75, 75-0556 to 561 (6), 76-1604 to 607 (4), 77-0351 to 356 (6), 78-0576 to 578 (3), 79-0001 to 003 (3), 80-0137 to 139 (3), 81-0004 and 5, 82-0006 and 7, and 83-0008 and 9 NATO: 18 aircraft, believed to start at AF serial 79-0442, Saudi Arabia: five aircraft (see Description). Known user units $52nd AWAC Wing, Tinker AFB (1981), Description An AWACS platform based on the Boeing 707- 3208 airframe. Two prototypes (EC-135D, see page 32) under test during 1972. First production E-3A delivered to the USAF on March 24, 1977, and the type became operational during April 1978 ‘As originally conceived, five equipment standards were applicable to the basic airframe. This sequence has since changed, following a number of retrofits and redesignation. The known details of the programme are as follows: Core USAF aircraft Nos 1-24. First 21 produced with no overwater radar capability, the last three having a limited maritime ability. All 24 aircraft are now to receive an additional HF and five more UHF radios, three more display consoles, a new command console, a new computer (the CC-2) and associated software, JTIDS, wing hardpoints for chaft/flare dispensers, the Have ‘Quick EWF-resistant communications system and, in the Boeing E-3A Sentry in Core configuration as originally proposed. Antenna key: 1 UHF transmit 2 Tacan 3 UF transmit 4 Tacan § Unidentified 6 VHF AM transmit/receive 7 UHF receive 8 UHF transmit 9 Tacan 10 UBF transmit 19 AIMS 12 Beacon 13 UHF transmit 14 Tacan 15 UHF receive Boeing E-3 Sentry, showing the massive dorsal rotodome, numerous communications antenna and the refuelling receptacle above the cockpit. (Lindsay Peacock) E-3A Sentry general layout: 1 Weather radar 2 Flight deck (pilot, co-pilot, navigator and one other) 3 Entry door 4 Communications (comms) racking 5 Forward under-deck bay (housing flight avionics, comms gear, bail-out chute, DC power unit and associated distribution system) 6 Computer racking 7 Escape hatch 8 Duty officer's console 9 TDMA 10 Navigation/IFF systems racking 11 Aft under-deck bay (housing surveillance radar transmitter and auxiliary power unit) 12 Crew rest area 13 Tadil-C antenna 14 HF probe antenna 15 Phase-shifter drive unit 16 IFF antenna 17 Phase-shifter contro! unit 18 Microwave receiver unit 19 Heat contro! unit 20 Surveillance radar antenna 21 Navigation/IFF systems racking 22 Comms racking 23 Surveillance radar receiver/signal-processor 24 Surveillance radar control/maintenance console 28 Liferaft racking 26/27 Multi- purpose display consoles 28 Computer operator's console 29 Comms racking 30 Comms console 31 HF probe antenna 29first 21 aircraft only, the limited overwater capability. Development and testing of these features is to be ‘completed during 1984 and aircratt carrying the com- plete package will be known as E-3Bs. Standard USAF aircraft Nos 25-34, Originally intended to be as Core aircraft, with the addition of JTIDS, Have Quick, an additional HF radio, provision for a radio teletype, an improved computer system, underwing hardpoints and the limited overwater capability. Standard aircraft will now be known as E-3Bs and will presumably receive the additional equipment scheduled for such aircraft con- verted from Core E-3As Enhanced Originally a USAF-only update programme covering five additional UHF radios, three more display consoles, the new command console, the improved CC-2 (?) computer and, most important, a full overwater capability. The enhanced aircraft will now be known as the E-3C, a designation describing the E-38 fit with the improved maritime ability, NATO Eighteen aircraft. Eight aircraft to the original Standard configuration but with European-manufactured equip- ment and the full overwater capability. The remaining ten aircraft are scheduled to receive the three additional display consoles from the E-3B fit Sanitised Five aircraft for Saudi Arabia. All security-sensitive equipment removed. The total Saudi package (E-3s and associated ground stations plus KC-707 tankers) is priced at $5,000 million at 1982 values. The specification given at the beginning of this entry applies to USAF E-3s anly and to the family as a whole rather than to a specific model Notes Without doubt the most well known modern EWE aircratt, the E-3A Sentry was dogged throughout the late 1970s by political controversy about who should be allowed to operate it, its cost and its capabilities Developed as a replacement for the USAF's EC-121 {see page 75) AEW aircraft, the Sentry represents a leap forward in the state of the art. Its sophistication can be gauged from the variety of modes in which its radar can operate: each systems operator can select any com- bination of five options for display, and the display can be sub-divided into a maximum of 24 sectors, each covered by one of the options. These comprise a non- elevation scan showing all targets down to ground level in azimuth only (using the high-PRF pulsed-Doppler segment of the output), an elevation scan showing all targets and their altitudes (pulsed-Doppler), a beyond- the-horizon scan showing all targets above the line of sight (low-PRF pulsed signals), a maritime surveillance mode which is able to display slow-moving and stationary targets, and a non-transmitting, passive mode in which the radar listens for electromagnetic sources. The first foreign customer for the E-3 was NATO, with, its European member countries contributing jointly to cost and manning. The UK was initially included in this scheme but delays in confirming the order, uncertainty about the eventual cost and unease about the type's, overwater capabilities led the British Government to withdraw from the programme and develop the Nimrod AEWS (see page 23). 30 The remaining NATO participants (11 out of the 14 member countries) continued with the project and the first of 18 E-3As was delivered to the German Federal Republic during February 1982. NATO aircraft are being fitted out by Dornier and the last of the force should be ready for operations in June 1985. In order to conform with the Geneva Convention’s ruling on aircraft mark- ings the NATO fleet is to be registered in Luxembourg whose ruler has recently sanctioned a national marking for the type, the country having no air force of its own, Once operational, the NATO E-3s will be based at Geilenkirchen (German Federal Republic), Preveza (Greece), Trapani (Sicily) and Konya (Turkey), and will be flown by crews drawn from the air forces of Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Nether- lands, Norway, Portugal, Turkey and the USA. The NATO AWACS force will operate in concert with the RAF's AEW Nimrods and USAF Sentries on detachment Boeing is still promoting the E-3 in Europe and has most recently demonstrated the type to the French Air Force (June/July 1982) If the Sentry's debut in Europe caused ripples, the decision to supply such aircraft to Saudi Arabia conjured up a full-blown hurricane. The sale resulted trom ‘America’s urgent need for friends in an increasingly hostile and unstable Middle East. The USA's traditional ally in the region, Israel, reacted violently, arguing that the aircraft would alter the balance of power inthe area in favour of the Arabs. In reality, Israel doesnot care for the fact that she will no longer be able to make surprise air strikes on her Arab neighbours, a tacit admission of the E-3A's effectiveness which makes a nonsense of the political debate in America The Presidential announcement of the sale caused a storm of controversy in Congress. This was based, reasonably enough, on fears of a repeat of the Iranian debacle, in which sophisticated American equipment fell into the hands of ahostile regime. The matter was placed in the hands of a Congressional committee which, in the words of one aviation journal, ‘played down its [ the E- 3A's ] capabilities to the point of ridicule’. The basis for this judgement remains unclear, but it certainly was politically expedient. Safe in the knowledge that the Sentry was of little value to anybody, least of all Saudi Arabia, Congress went ahead and approved the sale.Boeing E-4B Bowing E-4A, serial 73- 1676, of the 1st ACCS. Compare with the EC- 135s shown on page 34, (Lindsay Peacock) Boeing E-4 Family role Airborne command post (ABNCP) platform. Variants E-4A, E-4B, E-4A Role ABNCP. Powerplant Four JTSD-7 turbofans. Dimensions Span: 195ft Bin (59.64m). Length: 231ft 10in (70.66m), Height: 63ft Sin (19.33m), Weights Gross: 778,0001b (352,895ka) Production Three conversions trom Boeing 747-2008 airframes. AF serials: 73-1676 and 677, and 74-0787, Known user units 1st ACCS, Offutt AFB, Omaha (1980). Description Developed under the 4818 Advanced Airborne ‘Command Post programme (1973) as a replacement for the EC-135 (see page 32). First E-4A flown on June 13, 1973, with the second and third aircraft following during May and September 1975. Equipped for National Emer- gency Airborne Command Post (NEACP) duties (see Notes). Two of the three E-4As have been re-engined with F103-GE-100 turbofans, and _E-Systems/Boeing have uptraded one aircraft to E-48 configuration and are converting the other two to the same standard, The E-4A is fitted with an electronic suite originally used in the EC-135 series and offers 4,6201t? (429.2m?) of floor ‘space for crew and equipment. The main deck is divided into six areas: National Command Authorities work area, briefing room, conference room, battlestaff work area, rest area and communications centre. The flight deck accom- modates the flight crew, navigation centre and a rest area ‘A maintenance storage facility and a technical control station are located below the main deck, and the type is capable of sorties of up to 72hr duration. E-4B Role ABNCP. Powerplant Four F103-GE-100 turbofans, Dimensions As E-4A Production One aircraft (AF serial 75-0125). One E-4Ahas been converted to B standard, and the other two are Undergoing conversion. Description First flown during August 1975, the E-48 differs from the Ain having provision for in-flight refuelling; a new communications/control suite (produced by a consortium, with E-Systems as leader) which includes SHF, LF/VLF (Collins, using five miles of trailing aerial) and 11 other communications systems; accommodation for a larger battle staff, a 1,200kVA electrical system (eight engine-mounted 1S0kVA generators); an improved ai conditioning system; and nuclear thermal/electro- magnetic shielding, The type is externally distinguished by the dorsal fairing for the SHF antenna, ‘The more sophisticated electronic suite carried by the E- 4B enables it to be used as SAC’s primary ABNCP as well as for NEACP duties Notes The American military has long realised the value of airborne command platforms in the face of the massive disruption of government communications which would result from a nuclear strike. The E~4 provides the USA with a post-attack communications/control system which has the mobility needed to avoid destruction in a first strike, and electronics hardened against the worst of the thermal and electromagnetic effects of a nuclear burst. In the NEACP role the E-4 is linked to the White House (and/or Air Force One, the Presidential aircraft) and the Pentagon, and is in direct communication with SAC's primary ABNCP, the USN's TACAMO relays (see page 80) and the EC-185 ABNCPS of the various US C-in-Cs around the world. SAC’s ABNCP E-4 is linked to the NEACP. platform, the US-based ballistic missile silos, its own EC- 495s and its bomber/tanker force. In addition to the six aircraft detailed here, the USAF has a requirement (1982) for two more E-4Bs. 31Boeing EC-97G ‘The USAF operated an unknown number (including 52- 2678, 686, 688, 724 and 53-0308) of EC-97Gs - modified from KC-97G tankers - on ELINT duties during the early/mid-1960s. At least two such aircraft, characterised by ventral radomes and wire aerial arrays between the upper fuselage and fin, were operated by the 7406th ‘Support Squadron from Wiesbaden in the German Federal Republic. The Israeli Air Force modified two of a number of KC- 97Gs acquired during the late 1960s as dedicated EW! platforms (known service number: IAF-38). One of these aircraft was destroyed over Israel by an Egyptian SAM on September 16, 1971, and the other had been phased out of service by the late 1970s. In its standard form the KC-97G was powered by four R~4360-59 radials and hada span and length of 141ft 3in (43.05m) and 110ft 4in (33.63m) respectively. Boeing EC-976 Israeli Air Force EW!-configured KC-97G Boeing EC-135 and NCK-135A Stratotanker/Stratolifter Family role Airborne command post (ABNCP)/radio, relay/test aircraft Variants EC-135A, 8, C, D, G,H, J, K,L, Nand P, and NCK- 135A, EC-135A Role Radio relay aircraft 32 Powerplant Four J57-P-43W8/59W turbojets. Production Six conversions from KC-135A airframes. AF serials: 61-0262, 278, 287, 289, 293 and 297. Known user units: 4th ACCS (Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota, 1980). Description Produced during 1965, the EC-135A acts as a relay (replacing the EB-47L?) in SAC's Post Attack ‘Command Control System and is characterised by the retention of the refuelling boom, an Air Refuelling Receiver (ARR), and HF probes at each wingtip. Aircraft 61-0293 reverted to KC-135A standard during 1976\ » | | KC-135B. Role ABNCP, Powerplant Four TF33-P-9 turbofans. Production 17 aircraft delivered trom new. Description On delivery these aircraft were immediately redesignated EC-135Cs (14) and EC-195Js (3) EC-135C Role ABNCP. Powerplant Four TF33-P-9 turbofans Production 14 redesignations from KC-135Bs. AF serials: 62-3561 to 585 (5), 63-8046 to 054 (9) Known user units 2nd ACCS (Offutt AFB, Nebraska, 1980) and 4th ACCS (Ellsworth AFB, 1980) Description Characterised by the retention of the refuelling boom, an ARR, HF probes at each wingtip, two wire aerials between the fin and the fuselage, a dorsal saddle antenna, and a trailing aerial fairlead below the centre fuselage. Operated by and for SAC. Aircraft 62-3584 was modified to EC-185J standard by E-Systems during 1979-80, EC-135D Role Test platform Powerplant Four JT30-38 turbofans. Production Two conversions from Boeing 707-3208 airframes, AF serials: 71-1407 and 408. Description USAF designation for two 707 airliners modified by Boeing as part of the E-3 Sentry (see page 28) development programme. Both aircraft were flown during 1972 and were used for a competitive fly-off between Hughes (71-1407) and Westinghouse (71-1408) Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) radars. After five months of tests the Westinghouse submission was chosen for use in the production E-3, and 71-1407 went on to act as, the prototype. 71-1408 was returned to Boeing and was reworked as a production Sentry EC-135G Role Airborne launch control centre/radio relay platform. Powerplant Four J57-P-43WB/S9W turbojets Production Four conversions from KC-135A airframes during 1965. AF serials: 62-3570 and 579, 63-7994 and 8001 Known user units 4th ACCS (Ellsworth AFB, 1980) and 33Boeing EC-135C, serial 62-3585, displaying the characteristic dorsal saddle antenna. (Lindsay Peacock) 305th ARW (Grissom AFB, Indiana, 1980) Description Characterised by ventral/dorsal blade anten- nae, two wire aerials running from the fin to the fuselage, and HF probes at each wingtip. Operated by and for SAC's. ballistic missile force. EC-135H Role ABNCP. Powerplant Four J57-P-43WB/59W turbojets Production Five conversions from KC-135A airframes, during 1966. AF serials: 61-0274, 282, 285, 286 and 291 Known user units 6th ACCS (Langley AFB, Virginia, 1980) and 10th ACCS (Mildenhall, UK, 1980) Description Characterised by the retention of therefuelling boom, an ARR, dorsal/ventral blade antennae, a dorsal saddle antenna, two wire aerials running from the finto the fuselage, HF probes at each wingtip, and a trailing aerial fairing torward of the starboard main landing-gear well ‘The 6th ACCS operates one aircratt ofthis type for the use of the US C-in-C Atlantic, and the 10th ACCS flies the remaining four on behalf of the US C-in-C Europe. All EC- 135Hs are to be re-engined with JTaD turbofans. Initially the EC-136H was associated with the Silk Purse European, ACP programme. Boeing EC-135H, serial 61-0282, of the 10th ACCS on final approach at RAF Mildenhall, (Lindsay Peacock) Boeing EC-135H Stratolilter, showing the trailing aerial, airing 1 forward of the starboard main gear door 34 EC-135d Role ABNCP. Powerplant Four TF33-P-9 turbotans Production Three ‘redesignated’ KC-135Bs (63-8055, 056 and 057) and a conversion from an EC-135C (62-3584) Known user units 1st ACCS (Andrews AFB, 1970-74), and 9th ACCS (Hickam AFB, Hawaii, 1975-7) Description Characterised by twin wire aerials running between the fin and the fuselage, a dorsal saddle antenna, and HF probes at each wingtip. Operated on behalf of the US C-in-C Pacific. When serving with the 1st ACCS the EC-135Js were assigned the radio callsigns Skytop 1,2and 3 EC-135K Role ABNCP. Powerplant Four J57-P-43WB/S9W turbojets, Production Three conversions from KC-135A airframes. AF serials: 55-3118, $9-1518 and 62-3536. Known user units 8th TOCS (Tinker AFB, Oklahoma, 1980) and 8th ACCS (Seymour-Johnson AFB, North Carolina, 1980). Description Characterised by a fuel-dump pipe in place of the refuelling boom, two (later three) wire aerials between the fin and the fuselage, and HF probes at each wingtip. Operated by and for TAC. Aircraft 62-3536 was destroyedina crash at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, during November 1977, and aircraft §5-3118 is associated with the Oxeye Daisy programme. The remaining EC-135Ks are to be re- engined with JT3D turbofans, EC-135L, Role Radio relay platform, Powerplant Four J57-P-43WB/S9W turbojets, Production Eight conversions from KC-135A airframes during 1965, AF serials: 61-0261, 263, 269, 270(), 279,281, 283 and 302, Known user units 70th ARS, 305th ARW (Grissom AFB, 1980). Description Characterised by the retention of the refuelling boom, an ARR and ventral/dorsal blade antennae. Oper- ated by SAC (replacing the EC-135A7). Five aircraft of this type remain in service, EC-135P Role ABNCP. . Powerplant Four JS7-P-43WB/S9W turbojets, Produstion Five conversions from KC-135A airframes. AF serials: 58-0007, 011, 018, 019 and 022, Known user units 6th ACCS (Langley AFB, 1980) and 9th ACCS (Hickam AFB). Description Similar to the EC-135H. Criginally operated on behalf of the US C-in-C Pacific by the 9th ACCS. Three aircraft later passed to the 6th ACCS for the use of the US C-in-C Atlantic, one of which crashed during January 1980. The two remaining EC-135Ps are to be re-engined with JT3D turbofans, Notes Derived from the KC-135A/C-135B jet tanker/ transport, the EC-135/RC-135s (see page 38) are an extensive family of ABNCP and ELINT platforms employed by the USAF. The EC branch is mainly tasked with providing ABNCP facilities for various military services, ‘The ABNCP represents a mobile, relatively invulnerable ‘command/communications too! in the event of a nuclear war. These aircraft carry extensive communications suites, and known examples of such equipment include the AN/ACC-6 multiplexer, the AN/ARA-64 satellite com- munications terminal, and the AN/ARC-96 VLF/HF communications set fitted to the EC-135C. Apart from the aircraft described here and in the RC-135 entry, the basic airframe has been used for a number of other ‘electric’ applications KC-1358, Seven aircraft (61-0268, 270, 271, 280, 288 and 203, and 63- 8881) were modified as radio-relay aircraft for use by SAC. in South-east Asia under the Combat Lightning pro- gramme in 1966-67. Externally these aircraft resembled Standard KC-135As, with the exception of an extensive array of dorsal and ventral blade antennae. The Combat Lightning aircraft operated from Taiwan, Thailand and (Okinawa during the Vietnam War and were turned over to the 43rd Strategic Wing on Guam in 1973. These aircraft have since been returned to tanker standard, although five of the seven are reported to retain the antenna arrays, EC-135B Four C-1358s modified to provide communications support for the US space programme, EC-135N Eight C-1358s modified for tracking duties in support of the Apollo space programme, NKC-1354 Designation given to converted KC-135As used in various ‘experimental programmes. Suchaircraft include AF serials 55-3134 and 56-3596, which were loaned to the US Navy's Fleet Electronic Warfare Group (1975) for EWf trials work (BuNos 553134 and 563596) The Israeli Air Force makes use of Boeing 707s for ABNCP/radio relay purposes. No details of these aircraft have emerged but examples are known to have been used operationally. In its unmodified form the KC-136A has a span of 190ft 10in (39.88m), a length of 134ft6in (40.99m) and a height of 41ft Bin (12.69m). Recent estimates (1981) put the number of EC-135s of all types in service with the USAF at 32. 35,Boeing PB-1W Flying Fortress Role Airborne early warning (AEW)/anti-submarine search platform Powerplant Four R-1820-97 radials. Dimensions Span: 1031t in (31.62m). Length: 7aft din (22.65m) or 74ft Gin (22.78m), depending on the type of tail turret installed Known electronic equipment AN/APS-208: Search radar with a limited fighter-direction capability, Frequency: 2.0- 4.0GHZ band. Range: 65 miles (105km) against a single low-lying aircraft and 200 miles (322km) against shipping Employed an &ft (2.43m) scanner Production 32 conversions from B-17F and G airtrames. BuNos: 34106 (B-17F) and 114, 77137 and 138, 225-244 (20) and 258, and 83992-998 (7) Known user units VO-11, VP-51, VW-1 and 2 Description Produced between 1945 and 1947. Conversion included the installation of the radar and its associated ott (274m) by 11ft (3.35m) radome under the fuselage centre, section, additional fuel tanks in the bomb bay, commu cations and other gear for a combat information cent, and hardpoints for drop tanks between the engines on both wings, and the removal ofthe chin and dorsal turrets Apart from these installations, early P8-1Ws appear to have carried a full defensive armament. This was removed by stages as the type's service life progressed The first operational PB-1W was delivered on January § 1946, and the type remained in service until replaced by the \WV-2 Warning Star (see page 78) during the early 1950s. Boeing RB-47H Stratojet Role ELINT platform. Powerplant Six J-47-GE-25 turbojets plus 33 external JATO units for take-off Dimensions Span: 1 16ft(95.96m). Length: 108ft (32.92m) Height: 26ft(8.53m), Weights Empty: 83,4621b (97,858ka). Take-off: 220,0001b (99,792k9) Performance Maximum speed: 602mph (963kmvhr) at 15,000ft (4,572m). Operational cruising speed: 489mph (782km/nr) at 30,000Kt (9,144) Crew complement Pilot, co-pilot, observer/navigator and three EWf operators (noused in a bomib-bay capsule). Production 20 aircraft (built by Boeing at Wichita). AF serials: 83-4280 to 309 (28), and 53-6247 and 248, Known user units 55th SRW (1956(7)-67). Description First flown during June 1955, the RB-47H was @ purpose-built ELINT plaiform based on the B-47E airframe. Its primary role was the detection and location of, Warsaw Pact surface radars, and the 55th SRW used the type around the European borders of the Eastern Bloc. In the course of one such ‘ferret mission (July 1, 1960) one of the unit's RB-47Hs was shot down by the Soviet Air Force over the Barents Sea. Apart from the aircraft detailed above, 53-6245, 246 and 249 were designated ERB-47Hs, and it is believed that these aircraft were also ELINT platforms carrying a crew of five. Notes A number of earlier B-47 models were also employed on ELINT/EWF duties EBA7E ‘An ELINT conversion from the standard 8-47 bomber. Two sub-variants of this aircraft are believed to have 36 existed, one having a bomb-bay capsule housing two EWt operators and the other a removable EW! package in the same position. EB-47Es are known to have been operated by the 301st BW (including 53-2410) and the 55th SRW (including 53-2316), The three EB-47Es operated by this last unit had the suffix ‘TT’ added to their designations, carried a two-man bomb-bay capsule and were based at Incirlik, Turkey. More recently, two ex-USAF B-47Es (52- 2410 and 412) have been used by the USN for EW trials and designated in the EB series, EB-47L 35 B-47Es converted during 1963 for radio relay duties with SAC. Said to have been operational for a short time only, presumably being replaced by EC-135s (see page 32) Known equipment included the ITT AN/ATC-1 airborne switchboard. Boeing RB-47H, serial 53-4300, showing its unusual outrigger undercarriage and wide assortment of antenna fairings. (Lindsay Peacock) Top Boeing RB-47H Stratojet, showing optional EWf pod 1. Left-hand scrap view E8-47E (TT), showing ‘towel rail” antenna 2 carried on both sides of the nose, and the bomb- bay operator's station 3. Right-hand scrap view £B-47E, showing the bomb- bay EWf compartment 4Boeing RC-135 and KC-135R Stratotanker/Stratolifter Family role ELINT platform, Variants RC-1358, C, D, E, M, S, T. U, Vand W, and KC- 1G5R. RC-135B Role ELINT platform Powerplant Four TF33-P-9 turbofans, Known electronic equipment USD-7: Surveillance system built by AIL, Production Ten aircratt, AF serials: 63-9792 and 64-14841 to 849, Description Delivered during 1964-65 as_new aircraft ELINT equipment installed by Martin, Fuel-dumping system installed. All ton aircraft subsequently converted to RC-135C standard during 1967. 38 Us amrorce Boeing RC-135, serial 64-14841, with SLAR [airings on the forward fuselage. (Lindsay Peacock)ELINT-configured Boeing 707 (4X-JYL) of the Israeli Air arrays 2, fin-top omnidirectional housing 3, HF probe Force, showing SLAR antenna 1, numerous sensor antenna 4 and wingtip pitot 5 RC-135C general layout RC-135C | 1 Weather radar 2 Sensor ole ELINT platform. antenna fairing 3 Pilot/co- Powerplant Four TF33-P-9 turbotans pilot's station 4 Entry door Dimensions Span: 130{t 10in (39.88m). Length: 135ft tin 8 SLAR eteanies bay (41.15m). Height: 411 Bin (12.69m). 8 Locavon a forward Weights Empty: 147,8591b (67,069kg). Normal take-off fuselage fuel tanks 21,0401 (100,264Kg). Maximum take-off: 299,0001b 7 Cargo door 8 SLAR (138 626k9). antenna bath sides) Performance Maximum speed: 6t8mph (385knvhr) at 9 Wing fuetants 25,000Mt (7,620m). Cruising speed: S60mph (350km/hr) Spee eh 17 Are Range: 2,675 miles (4,305km). Normal operating altitude: uselage fuel tanks 12.KA- _35,909Mt (10,668m). Service ceiling! 40,600% (12,375m) 89 camera bay 13 Crew Crew complement Pilot, co-pilot, relief pilot, two navi- rest bunks 14 Afipressure gators, EWI director, two EW! operators, three EWE bulkhead 15 HF probe Specialists, four equipment operators and a maintenance | antenna 16 Toilet tee . a technician. Provision for five relief crew members. 17 ORC.269 (ELINT Known electronic equipment receiver) consoles ‘AN/ALA-6: Pulse analyser. Also described as a direc- 18 Equipment consoles tion-finder. aA ASO) ela AN/ALO-70: Noise jammer built by Sanders. system) consoles AN/APR-17: Intercept receiver built by Lora 20 AN/ASD-1 electronics AN/ASD-1: ELINT system built by AlL/Melpar/GTE => racking 21 Electrons GRC-260: ELINT receiver system (last sweep) Dull by racking 22 Navigators Watkins-Jonnson. station 23 Forward Production Ten AC-1958s converted to RO-1350 stan- pressure bulkhead tard 24 Supernumary pilot's Description During 1967 the ten RC-1358s were modified station and redesignated RC-135C. Externally the conversions were characterised by the addition of side-looking airborne radar (SLAR) fairings on either side of the fuselage and the installation of probe antennae above each of the wingtips. Other changes included the installation of ‘a KA-59 camera in what in the basic tanker airframe was the boom operator's station. The RC-135C was associated with the USAF's Big Team programme and was operated by the 55th SRW. Since 1967 all RC-135Cs have been ‘converted to RC-135U or V standard, RC-135D Role ELINT platform, Powerplant Four J57-P-43WB or P-59W turbojets. 39A Bosing RC-135C B RO-135D C RO-135E D KC-135R E RC-135S F RC-135U G RC-135V H NKC-1354 (BuNo 563596). General key: 1 HF probe antenna 2 Sensor arrays/fairings 3 Camera bay/ports 4 SLAR antenna 5 Loran aerial 6 Wingtip pitot 7 Wrap-around fuselage radar array 8 Refuelling boom 9 Radio-compass loop 10 Sliding sensor shield 11 Wing-mounted EW test pod g j us an ones Boeing RC-135D, seria! 60-0357, complete with distinctive cylindrical SLAR fairings on the forward fuselage. (Lindsay Peacock) Production Four conversions from KC-135A tanker air- frames. AF serials: 59-1491 and 60-0356, 357 and 362 Description Produced during 1962-63, the FC-135D was characterised externally by two antenna configurations: a thimble nose radome and tubular fairings along the sides Of the forward fuselage, starting at the wing roots; and the thimble nose alone. The D also carried an airborne 40 refuelling receiver (ARR). One RC-135D (59-1491) was lost in January 1969 and the remaining three were re-converted to KC-135A standard during 1975-79. All RC-135Ds were operated by the 55th SRW and at least one by the 6th SW (Eielson AFB, 1969, associated with the Rivet Brass programme). The RC-135D was originally known as the KC-135-1 RC-135E. Role ELINT platform Powerplant Four TF33-P-5 turbofans. Description A single C-135B (62-4137) was fitted with a Hughes SLAR by E-Systems under the Rivet Amber programme, the result being designated the AC-135E. Externally the aircraft was characterised by two equipment pods mounted inboard of Nos 2 and 3 engines, and a massive glass-fibre radome which made up virtually the whole of the forward fuselage. The aircraft was operational with the 6th SW at Eielson AFB and was lost over the Bering Sea on June 5, 1969, on a flight from Shemya AFB as a result of structural failure of the radome. RC-135M Role ELINT platform Powerplant Four TF33-P-5 turbofans, Production Six conversions from C-1958 airframes. AF serials: 62-4131, 132, 134, 135, 138 and 139, Known user units 55th SRW. Description Produced during 1967-8, the AC-135M is externally characterised by a thimble nose radome, a double-lobe antenna fairing in the position normally occupied by the refuelling pod on the C-135B, and two teardrop-shaped fairings on the fuselage sides just forwardof the tailplane. Three RC-135Ms remain in service and three are being (1980) converted to RC-135W standard The RC-135M is associated with both the Rivet Quick (1968) and Rivet Card programmes, and is currently used in the European theatre, operating from Mildenhail in the UK. RC-135S Role ELINT platform Powerplant Four TF33-P-5 turbofans Production Two conversions from C-1358 airframes, AF serials: 61-2663 and 664 Known user units 6th SW (Eielson AFB, Alaska, 1970-80) Description Externally characterised by a thimble nose radome, two antenna fairings forward of the tailplane on each side of the fuselage, a probe antenna on the port-side ‘cargo door, and three similar arrays on the starboard side. During 1972 one aircraft had one of the three starboard probes removed. It has been suggested that RC-135D 59- 1491 was brought up to S standard before its loss in January 1969. The RC-135S is associated with the Rivet Ball programme. RC-135T Role ELINT platform (?)/training aircraft. Powerplant Four J57-P-43WB/P-59W turbojet. Production Single conversion from a KC-135A airframe, AF serial: 55-3121 Description Initially known as the KC-135R, the single RC- 195T was produced during 1971 and is characterised externally by a thimble nose radome, a fence antenna above the fuselage and a wire aerial between the fin and a dorsal mast. The RC-135T was used by the 55th SRW for training and support duties from Kadena AFB, Okinawa, until late 1979, when itis believed to have been reassigned to the 305th ARW at Grissom AFB, presumably asa tanker. RC-135U Role ELINT platform, Powerplant Four TF33-P-9 turbofans. Production Three conversions from RC-135C airframes. AF serials: 63-9792, and 64-14847 and 849, Known user units 55th SRW. Description Produced during 1971, the RC-135U is characterised by a chin radome, SLAR housings on either side of the forward fuselage, two probe antennae above each SLAR, a ventral fairing aft of the nosewheel door, a probe antenna above the starboard wing, antenna fairings at each wingtip, a modified tailcone, a further ventral fairing aft of the refuelling pod, two wire aerials between the fin and dorsal masts and an aft-facing pod fairing above the rudder. One aircraft (63-9792) trom this series has subsequently been converted to RC-135V standa‘d. The RC-135U is associated with the Combat Scent (1870-1) and Combat Pink (1971) programmes. RC-135V Role ELINT platform. Powerplant Four TF33-P-9 turbofans, Production Eight conversions from RO-195C (seven, AF serials 64-14841 to 846, and 648) and RC-135U (63-9792) airframes. Known user units 55th SRW. Description Produced in 1973-77, the RC-195V is extern- ally characterised by a thimble nose radome, SLAR fairings on either side of the forward fuselage, a probe antenna 4above the starboard wingtip, two wire aerials between the fin and dorsal masts, and seven blade antennae along the bottom of the fuselage. RC-135W Role ELINT platform. Powerplant Four TF33-P-9 turbofans, Description Conversion from three RC-135Ms (including 62-4131 and 135) begun during 1980. Externally character- ised by a thimble nose radome, SLAR housings on either side of the forward fuselage, a probe antenna above the starboard wingtip, a wire aerial between the fin anda dorsal ‘mast, and at least four ventral blade antennae. KC-135R. Role ELINT platform? Powerplant Four J57-P-43WB/P-SOW turbojets, Production Five conversions trom KC-135A airframes, AF serials: §5-3121, 58-0124 and 126, 59-1465 and 514. Description Produced between 1983 and 1970, the KC- 495R was externally characterised by the retention of the tankers flight-refuelling boom, a thimble nose radome, a fence Loran aerial above the forward fuselage, two camera ports in the main cargo door, and teardrop-shaped fairings on either side of the fuselage, forward of the tailplane Aircraft 59-1465 is believed to have been written off ina crash during July 1967, 58-0124 had been returned to tanker standard by September 1975, 55-3121 became the sole RC-135T, and 58-0126 (1976) and 59-1514 (Septem- ber 1975) were reconverted into tankers, All KC-135Rs were used by the 55th SRW. Notes First rolled out in production form on August 31 1986, Boeing's KC-135 tanker and its transport counter part, the C-135, have provided the basic airframes for no fewer than 11 ELINT platforms for the USAF. Never builtin large numbers, these aircraft have nonetheless played an ‘extremely important part in the US reconnaissance effort against the Eastern Bloc’s electronic defences. For performance reasons the RC-135s have been used for peripheral missions rather than direct penetration of hostile airspace. Most of the RC-135 family have been configured to collect data on radar characteristics, guidance systems and signals traffic, and, latterly, radi ation intelligence (RINT). The last-named activity’ com- prises the detection and analysis of RF radiation from such things as power lines and motor transports. RINT- configured RC-135s are associated with the Rivet Joint programme. At present all the USAF's RC-135s are controlled by the ‘56th SRW, based (1980) at Offutt AFB, Nebraska, as part of SAC. Individual aircraft are detached to US bases around the world as and when required. Latestestimates (1981-82) put the number of RC-135s in service at around 17, probably made up of three RC-135Ms, two RC-138S, two RC-135Us, eight RC-135Vs and two RC-135Ws. Israel's Heyl Ha’Avir has operated at least one Boeing 707 configured for ELINT duties. This aircraft, carrying the registration 4X-JYL and probably originally operated by national flag carrier El Al, is fitted with SLAR housings on either side of the forward fuselage, at least four blade antennae along the bottom of the fuselage, an omni- directional fin radome and a ventral strake beneath the tailplane. This aircraft and the RC-138V are reported to be similar, 42 Boeing TB-29 Superfortress During the late 1940s a number of 8-29 bombers were stripped of their armament and modified for radar calibration duties. The first unit to operate such aircraft was formed at Langley AFB, Virginia, in 1949. During the 1950s fighter interception training, EW equipment training and live and passive EW target duties were added to the calibration role. The T8-29 remained in service until June 1960, when an aircraft of the 6023rd Radar Evaluation Squadron made the USAF's last 8-29 flight. The type was powered by four R-3350-23 radials and had a span and length of 141ft 294in (43.05m) and 99ft (90.18) respec tively Breguet Br.1150 Atlantic The 2nd Staffel of Marinefliegergeschwader 3. Graf Zeppelin of the Federal German Republic's navy is ‘operating (1982) five Atiantics modified tor SIGINT duties from its base at Nordholz. In its basic maritime recon- naissance configuration the 8.1150 is powered by two ‘Tyne R.Ty.20 Mk 21 turboprops and has a span and length of 1191 tin (96.30m) and 104tt 2in (31.75m) respectively. Canadair CF-104D Starfighter Eskadrille 726 of the Royal Danish Air Force has recently been reported as operating seven CF-104Ds on EW! and training duties from Aalborg. The exact nature of their Wf role is unclear, but it probably involves the provision of targets for the electronic elements of Denmark's air- defence network. The CF-104D is a Canadian-built two- ‘seat operational trainer derived originally from the single- seat C-series Starfighter. Powered by a J79-GE-11A turbojet, the D features a second seat mounted in the C's avionics bay and provision for in-flight refuelling, and has a span and length of 21ft 11in (6.68m) and S4ft Sin (16.69m) respectively. Curtiss C-46D Commando ‘The Japan Air Self-Defence Force's Electronic Warfare Training Unit is reported as operating a number of C-46Ds modified for EW! duties (including 91-1140) from Iruma until at least 1976. These aircraft are believed to have performed a similar function to the YS-11 (see page 95) and are no longer in service. The JASDF has also operated two C-46As (serials 91-1143 and 145) on calibration duties. in its transport form the C-46D was powered by two R-2800- 75 radials and had a span and length of 108ft in (32.92m) and 761t din (23,26m) respectively. Dassault-Breguet Falcon 20/ Mystére 20 Role EW! training platform Powerplant Two CF700-2D-2 turbojets (see Description), Dimensions Span: S3ft Gin (16.30m). Length: 56ft 3in (17.15m), Height: 171t Sin (632m).Weights Empty: 16,6001b (7,530kg). Maximum take-off: 28,6601b (13,000kg) Performance Maximum cruising speed: 536mph (862km/ hr) at 25,000ft (7,620m). Absolute ceiling: 42,000ft (12,800m). Maximum range: 2,080 miles (3,350km) Crew complement Two flight crew and an unknown ‘number of systems operators (see Description). Known user units Canada: No 414 (EW) Squadron, North Bay (1980). Norway: No 335 Squadron, Gardermoen (1979) Description Canada Known as the CC-117 Falcon in Canadian service, seven aircraft were acquired during 1968 as an offset against a French Government purchase of Canadair CL-215s. Three of these were delivered to No 414 Squadron to supplement the unit's other EW! aircraft (see pages 21 and 57). These machines carry the military serials 117506, 117507 and, possibly, 117505 and are fitted with active jamming equipment in addition, Aircraft 507 has had a chaff dispenser installed in its rear fuselage. AS originally delivered, 414 Squadron's CC-117s were powered by CF700-2C engines; these are eventually to be replaced by the more powerful CF700-20-2. The Canadian EW! Falcons are used as targets for the NORAD defence system and appear to be flown by two- man crews (pilot and systems operator/navigator). Recent ‘estimates (1981) put the number of CC-117s in service with One of the JASDF's EWr-contigured C-46s, fitted with nose and ventral antenna fairings. (Lindsay Peacock) 414 Squadron at three, but there have been suggestions that the remaining four will also be converted for the EWS role, Norway No 335 Squadron operates a mix of calibration-equipped C-130H Hercules (six aircraft in 1979) and calibration/EWf Mystére 20s, Recent estimates put the number of Mystere 20s in service at three, and itis believed that they are used to exercise the electronic elements of Norway's armed forces The weight and performance figures apply to the standard CF700-2D-2-powered transport de Havilland Sea Venom FAW.21 The Royal Navy's Ewf trials and training unit, 751 Squadron, operated five or six modified Sea Venom FAW.21s on monitoring and radio communications jam- ming duties. The aircraft had their cannon armament removed and the space used for the installation of electronic equipment, On May 20, 1958, 751 was re- numbered 831 Squadron and the Sea Venoms became the new unit's B Flight. No 831 continuted to operate the type (including WW149, coded 272, WW200, coded 380 and WMS571, coded 381) unti its almagamation into 360 Squadron RAF during May 1966 (see page 22). In its standard form the Sea Venom FAW.21 was powered by a single Ghost 104 turbojet and had a span of 42ft 10in (12.81m), a length of 36tt Bin (10.98m) and a height of 7ft 6in (2.28) 43de Havilland Comet R.2 Role ELINT platform Powerplant Four Avon 503/4 or Avon 117/18 turbojets (see Description) Dimensions Span: 115ft Gin (35.05m) (29.26m), Height: 28ft 4¥Vsin (863m) Weights Maximum loaded: 120,000Ib (54,432kg) Performance Cruising speed: 480mph (768km/hr) at 40,000ft (12,182m). Maximum range: 2,500 miles (4,023km) Production Seven conversions from Comet 2 (three) and Comet C.2 (four) airframes. RAF serials: XK655, 659 and 663 (Comet 2s), 671, 695, 697 and 715 (Comet C.2s) Known user units No 51 Squadron (1958-74) and No 192 Squadron (1958). Description Comet 2: Three aircraft taken over by the RAF from civilian contracts. Avon 503/4 engines, original-style rectangular cabin windows, and deactivated cabin pres- surisation. Comet C.2: Ten Comet 2 airframes modified for use by RAF Transport Command. Avon 117/18 engines with outward-swept tailpipes, rebuilt pressure shells, strengthened floors, and oval cabin windows. Modification to R.2 standard performed by the RAF and/or Marshall Air Services. Aircraft XK655 and 695 at least featured ‘equipment fairings below the forward and centre fuselage. Aircraft XK663 was destroyed in a hangar fire on September 13, 1957, and XK697 is reported to have been used for equipment trials. The weights and performance figures apply to the unmodified Comet C.2. Notes Something of a ‘mystery ship,’ the Comet R.2 ‘appeared during 1957-58 as a replacement for 192 Squadron C Flight's three B-29A Washington ELINT aircraft (WZ966, 967 and 968). On August 21, 1958, 192 ‘Squadron was renumbered 51 Squadron and the Comet R.2s were transferred to the new unit, with which they served until replaced by the Nimrod R1 in 1974. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the Comet R.2 was ‘equipped for the monitoring of Warsaw Pact signals traffic and the analysis of radar transmissions. The type is believed to have been used along the western and southern margins of the Eastern Bloc, with some aircraft being detached to such places as Cyprus from time to time. Length: 96ft Oin 44 Douglas AD/A-1 Skyr: Family role Airborne early warning (AEW)/EWS platform. Variants AD-10, 20, 3Q, 3W, 40, 4W, 5Q (EA-1F) and SW (EAE), AD-10 Role EWi platform Powerplant One R-3350-24W radial Dimensions Span: 50ft (15.24m), Length: 39tt6in (12.04m), Height: 12tt (3 65m) Weights Empty: 10,970Ib (4,976kg) (7.711k9), Performance Maximum speed: 345mph (552km/hr). Ser- vice ceiling: 26,600ft (8,108m). Range: 1,506 miles (2.424km) Crew complement Pilot and systems operator Production 35 conversions from AD-1 airframes, BuNos: 09352-386, Known user units Fleet Airborne Electronic Training Units Pacific and Atlantic(?), late 1940s Description First EW! variant of the basic design, first delivered during 1947. The systems operator was housed in a fuselage compartment aft of the wings. AD-2Q Role EW! platform. Powerplant One R-3350-26W radial Dimensions As AD-1Q. Weights Empty: 11,2001b (5,080kg) (7,711kg). Performance Maximum speed: 369mph (591km/hr), Ser- vice ceiling: 26,600ft (8,108m). Range: 1,506. miles (2,424km), Crew complement Pilot and systems operator. Production 21 conversions from AD-2 airframes, BuNos: 122366-372 (7) and 374-387 (14). Used by VCM-1 (1952) Description EW! sub-variant of the second major produc- tion model of the Skyraider (more powerful engine, strengthened airframe and revised fuel tankage), first delivered during 1948. In addition to the 21 aircraft noted above, BuNo 122373 was delivered (1949) as an AD-2QU combined EW//target-towing aircraft Gross: 17,0001b Gross: 17,000Ib——\.. e an * de Havilland Comet R.2 Top Douglas Skyraider AEW.1 (AD-4W), showing the AN/APS-20 radome 1 and the radar compartment entry door 2. Bottom AD-50/EA-1F, showing ihe location of the systems operator's compartment 3 AD-3Q Role EW! platform Powerplant One R-3350-26W radial Dimensions As AD-10. Weights Empty: 11,600Ib (5,262kg). Gross: 17,000Ib (7,711kg) Performance Maximum speed: 351mph (S61km/hr). Ser- vice ceiling: 36,000ft (10,973m). Range: 1,495 miles (2,406km). Crew complement Pilot and systems operator Production 23 conversions from AD-3 airframes. BuNos: 122854-876, Known user units VA-55 (1950-51) and VA-115(?) (1950- 51). Description EW! sub-variant of the third major production model of the Skyraider (redesigned cockpit canopy, lengthened mainwheel oleos and a revised tailwheel), first delivered during 1949. The AD-3Q was originally ordered as the AD-3QU EWf/target-towing aircraft but the latter requirement was dropped before production began AD-3W Role AEW platform. Powerplant As AD-30 Dimensions As AD-30. Weights Empty: 13,000Ib (5,897kg) (7,484kg) Performance Maximum speed: 34Smph (552km/hr). Ser~ vice ceiling: 27,000ft (8,230m). Range: 1,265 miles (2,036km). Crew complement Pilot and two radar operators. Gross: 16,5001 ' eeeKnown electronic equipment AN/APS-20 search radar. Production 31 conversions from AD-3 airframes, BuNos: 122877-901 Known user units VC-11 and VC-12 (both early 1950s) Description First AEW variant of the Skyraider, based on the third major production model and first delivered during 1949, The -3W was characterised by a large ventral radome, the appearance of which led to its nickname of Guppy,’ and a solid fairing behind the cockpit canopy which housed the radar's inverter. The operators sat in a fuselage compartment aft of the wings. Two AD-3Ws were modified for anti-submarine search trials under the designation AD-3E. AD-4Q Role EW! platform Powerplant One A-3350-26WA radial Dimensions As AD-1 Weights Empty: 11,600Ib (5,262kg). Gross (7,711kg), Performance Maximum speed: 351mph (561km/hr). Ser~ vice ceiling: 36,000ft (10.973m). Crew complement Pilot and systems operator Production 39 conversions from AD-4 airframes. BuNos: 124037-075, Known user units VC-11 Description EWf sub-variant of the fourth major produc- tion model of the Skyraider (new autopilot, strengthened windscreen and tail hook), first delivered during 1949, 17,0016 Douglas EA-1F, BuNo 135018, photographed in post- operational storage. (Lindsay Peacock) 46 ‘AD-4W Role AEW platform Powerplant As AD-40, Dimensions As AD-40. Weights Empty: 12,6001 (5,715kg) (7,938k9). Performance As AD-4Q. Crew complement Pilot and two radar operators, Known electronic equipment AN/APS-20 search radar. Production 168 conversions from AD-4 airframes. BuNos: 124076-127 (52), 761-777 (17), 125765-782 (18), 126836- 875 (40) and 127921-961 (41) Known user units VAW-11 and VAW-12. Description Generally similar to the -2W, the AD-4W was the AEW sub-variant produced from the fourth major Skyraider production model, deliveries of which began in 1950. The -4W carried finlets on the tailplane to provide additional stability and was initially seen as both an AEW platform and an anti-submarine search aircraft. Some 52 aircraft configured for the latter role were included in the initial order, but changing requirements led to this duty being dropped and all the 4Ws were delivered as AEW platforms The AD-4W was also used by the Royal Navy, under the designation Skyraider AEW.1. A total of 50 aircraft (serials WTO97, 112, 121, 761, 849, 944-969 [26] and 964-987 [4] Wv102"107 (6] and 177-185 [9]) were supplied under the Mutual Defence Assistance Programme between 1951 and early 1956. Skyraider AEW. 1s served with 778 Squadron for {rials and with the flights of 849 Squadron on operations. in Riyal Naval service the type was replaced during 1960 by the Gannet AEW.3 (see page 58) Gross: 17,500IbDouglas EA-1E, BuNo 139577, of VAW-33. The prominent ventral radome resulted in the type being nicknamed ‘Guppy’ (Lindsay Peacock) AD-SQ/EA-1F Role EWf platform. Powerplant One R-3350-26WA radial Dimensions Span: as AD-10. Length: 40ft tin (12.19m), Height: 13ft 11in (4.24m). Weights Empty: 12,097Ib (5,487kg) (7,711kg). Performance Maximum speed: 311mph (497km/hr) Service ceiling: 27,000 (8,230m). Range: 1,359 miles (2,188km), Crew complement Pilot and systems operator (7) Production Two factory conversions (BuNos 132506 and 1135054) from AD-SN airframes, and 62 conversion packs (see Description). Known user units VAW-11, VAW-33, VAW-35 and VAQ-33. Description The AD-5Q marked a radical departure trom previous EWf variants of the basic design. It featured a longer fuselage with the cockpit area widened to allow side-by-side seating for the pilot and systems operator, a revised canopy and an enlarged fin and rudder, and was planned from the outset as a multi-role aircraft. A variety of role kits could be fitted at the factory or supplied to the user for application when an operational need arose. The new EA-1F designation was applied during 1962, and in this Guise the type was still in limited service during 1979. AD-SW/EA-1E Role AEW platform, Powerplant As AD-5Q. Dimensions As AD-5Q. Weights As AD-SQ. Gross: 17,0001b Performance Maximuin speed: 299mph (478km/hr). Ser- vice ceiling: 27,000ft (8,230m). Range: 1,488 miles (2,395krn), Crew complement Pilot and two radar operators. Known electronic equipment AN/APS-20 search radar. Production 218 factory conversions from AD-5 airframes. BuNos: 132729-792 (64), 133757-766 (20), 135139-222 (84) and 139556-605 (50) Known user units VAW-11, VAW-12, VAW-33 and VMCJ-3. Description The final AEW variant of the Skyraider tamil. the AD-SW was first delivered during 1953 and featured the familiar ventral radome and a modified canopy over the Position of one of the radar operators (this canopy is also used on the EA-1F when more than one systems operator 's carried). When the US military designation system was changed in 1962 the SW became known as the EA-1E, and as such it remained in service until at least 1967. Notes With its roots in the Second World War, the “Spad,” as the Skyraider came to be known some 20 years after its first tlight on March 18, 1945, proved to be a successful and long-lived naval attack bomber. Eventually used by three ‘out of the four American air arms, the AD/A-1 family ‘embraced EWI/AEW variants derived from five out of the seven main production models, The early Q variants saw extensive service during the Korean War, ferreting out enemy radar stations, jamming signals traffic and delivering the odd bomb and rocket {although configured for EWf duties, they couldstill carry a significant warload). In the AEW mode the EA-1E (serving with VAW-11) saw operational service at the beginning of the Vietnam War before being replaced by later types. 47Douglas B-26B Invader During the Korean War the USAF's 728th Bomb Squadron flew at least one 8-268 (AF serial 44-3453) on radar- suppression sorties. Flying from Pusan, this aircraft was fitted with receiving/homing gear (fed by a nose-mounted mast antenna) and carried a phenomenally heavy forward- Douglas 8-268 Invader contigured for the radar- suppression role firing armament of 14 0.50in Browning machine guns and an equal number of Sin rockets. The B-268 was powered by two R-2800-79 radials and had a span and length of 7Oft (21.34m) and S0ft Bin (15.44m) respectively.Douglas C-47 and EC-47 Skytrain/Dakota Family role Airborne early warning (AEW)/EWF training/ EW! test/electronic reconnaissance/navaid calibration platform, Variants C-47, C-47RM, and EC-47D, HJ.M.N.P.Q. c-a7 Role EWS training platform Remarks C-47s (sub-variant_ unknown but probably standard transports) used by the Royal Canadian Air Force's 104 Composite Unit during the mid/late 1950s as targets for ground radar stations, C-47RM Role EW! test platform Description Transport C-47s (sub-variant unknown) modi- fied as EW! testbeds for the Italian Air Force's 71° Gruppo, 14° Stormo GE. Recent estimates (1981) put thenumber of such aircraft in service at between two and nine. EC-47D Role Navaid calibration platform. Powerplant Two R-1830-90D radials, Production 26 conversions from C-47D airframes. Description Produced during 1953, the EC-47D (pre- viously AC-47D) was used to check US internal air routes and navaids. The designation EC-47D has also been applied to an electronic reconnaissance variant which is reported to have been used in Vietnam, EC-47H Role EW! training platform Powerplant Two R-1830-92 radials, Description Redesignation (1962) of the USN's R4D-5Q (based on the C-47A). Identified EC-47Hs include BuNos 17176 and 178, 39062 and 0686. EC-47J Role EW! training platform. Powerplant Two R-1830-90C radials. Description Redesignation (1962) of the USN’s R4D-6Q (based on the C-47B). —C-a7M Role Unknown. Description Tentative identification for a number of EC-47H/Js titted with ‘special electronic’ equipment during the Vietnam War. EC-47N Role Electronic reconnaissance platform, Powerplant Two R-1830-92 radials. Production An unknown number of conversions from C-47A airframes. Known AF serials: 42-100513 and 950, 43-15584, 43-15681 and 43-15980. Known user units 1st SOS, 361st TEWS, 362nd TEWS and 363rd TEWS. Description Associated with the Cabra Hood programme, ‘which covered the development, modification and use of EC-47s for AEW/electronic reconnaissance in South-east Asia. —C-47P Role Electronic reconnaissance platform Powerplant Two R-1830-90D radials. Production An unknown number of conversions from C-470 airframes. Known AF serials: 43-48871, 43-49208, 44-77254 and 45-1046, Known user units 1st SOS, 361st TEWS, 362nd TEWS and 363rd TEWS, Description Associated with the Cobra Hood programme. Similar to the EC-47N EC-470 Role Unknown Powerplant Two R-2000-4 radials. Description An unknown number of re-engined C-47A/D airframes modified for ‘special electronic missions Notes First flown on December 17, 1935, the ‘Dak’ is perhaps the best known and certainly one of the most widely used civilian/military transports ever built, EW Top Douglas EC-47N Skytrain. Bottom EC-47P 49am) Douglas EC-470 Skytrain variants of the basic design have been used operationally as recently as the Vietnam War in the 1960s and early 19708. In Vietnam the USAF used EC-47s to maintain an electronic watch along the country's western border and the coastal waters around southern North Vietnam. Any radio signal deemed hostile was plotted and identified and, the emitter's location passed on for possible attack. This work was shared with the US Army's RU-215s (see page 25), The large number of C-47 variants and sub-variants rules ‘out the presentation of technical details for each. The following figures are representative of the family as a whole Dimensions Span: 95it Gin (29.11m) (19.43m). Height: 171t (5.8m). Weights Empty: about 17,000Ib (7,711kg). Loaded: about 25,0001b (9,072ka) Performance Maximum speed: 229mph (368km/hr) at 8.500ft (2,590m). Cruising speed: 185mph (296km/hr) Range: 1,500 miles (2,400km), Length: 63ft gin Douglas C-54 Skymaster During the earliest days of the American military involve- ment in Vietnam the USAF operated a single C-54 as an ELINT platform. Based at Tan Son Nhut, this aircraft (callsign “Hilo Hattie’) was tasked with the location of Vietcong radio transmitters, for which itwas equipped with a HF direction-finding system, infra-red detectors and cameras. Operations began on April 20, 1962, andattotal of 102 sorties had been flown by February 1963, when the aircraft was replaced by a similarly modified C-97 (see page 32). The direction-finding system proved to be relatively ineffective. Another EWf application of the C-54 was the EC-S4U, a 50 US Navy EWf training and trials platform based on the C-S4E/RSD-4 airframe. In its standard form the C-54E/ ASD-4 was powered by four R-2000-11 radials and had a span and length of 117ft 6in (35.81m) and 93ft 10in (28 60m) respectively. Douglas EA-3, EKA-3B and ERA-3B Skywarrior Family role EWI/ELINT platform. Variants EA-3A and 38, EKA-38, ERA-3B. EA-3A Role ELINT platform Powerplant Two J57-P-6 turbojets. Crew complement Pilot, navigator, flight engineer/radar operator and four EWf operators, Known EWf equipment AN/ALQ-23: Automatic search and jamming system. AN/ALR-3: Believed to be a radar warning receiver. AN/ALR-8: ECM receiver built by Raytheon, AN/ARA-69: Believed to be a radar-spectrum analyser, AN/APA-74: ECM pulse-analyser built by Loral. AN/APR-9: ELINT receiver covering the 1-10.7SGHZ bang. Production One prototype (BuNo 130361) and five production aircraft (BuNos 130356, 360, 362 and 363, and 195418). Known user units VO-1 (1956-58) and VQ-2 (1955-59). Description First EWf variant derived from the basic A-3A airframe. EWf operators housed in a pressurised compart- ‘ment in the bomb bay. Originally designated A3D-10,