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, a next-generation tactical jammer aircraft based on the Gulfstream G550 business jet, is progressing well and slated to enter service within the next five years, replacing the EC-130H.
This new aircraft is designed to disrupt enemy command and control, communications, and navigation systems with modernized electromagnetic attack capabilities, offering enhanced flight performance, speed, endurance, and extended stand-off range compared to its predecessor.
The program involves electromagnetic warfare equipment from BAE Systems and L3Harris, with three of the planned ten EC-37Bs already delivered and undergoing mission system integration and testing.

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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.