Air Force Tests an Electronic Attack Jet Based on Gulfstream’s G550

The EC-37B tactical jammer is slated to replace the C-130-based EC-130H Compass Call.

Kimberly Johnson

Thursday, September 15, 2022 at 02:15 PM ET

Verified

The EC-37B tactical jammer is slated to replace the C-130-based EC-130H Compass Call. [Courtesy: U.S. Air Force]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Air Force's EC-37B Compass Call is a next-generation tactical jammer aircraft, based on the Gulfstream G550 business jet, designed to disrupt enemy communications and navigation systems.
The program is "progressing well" and is on track to replace the legacy EC-130H by entering service within the next five years, with the first five aircraft planned for fielding next year.
The EC-37B offers enhanced flight performance, improved survivability, and modernized electromagnetic attack capabilities compared to its predecessor.
The Air Force plans to acquire 10 EC-37Bs, with three jets already delivered and undergoing mission system integration and testing by partners like L3Harris and BAE Systems.

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The U.S. Air Force’s EC-37B Compass Call, the next-generation tactical jammer aircraft program based on a business jet airframe, is “progressing well” and on track to enter service within the next five years, according to the service.

The EC-37B is based on the Gulfstream G550 business jet airframe and kitted out with electromagnetic warfare equipment from BAE Systems and L3Harris. It’s slated to replace the C-130 Hercules-based EC-130H Compass Call tactical weapon system that’s been in service since the early 1980s.