AI-Powered Radar Warning Receiver for Fourth Generation Aircraft

March 5, 2025

Raytheon demonstrated its new AI/ML-powered radar receiver on a fourth-generation aircraft, such as the F-16D shown here during a training flight over the Florida Gulf. Raytheon did not release an image of what the new receiver looks like. (Image: U.S. Air Force)

Raytheon has completed flight testing on its first-ever artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML)-powered Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) system for a fourth-generation aircraft.

The Cognitive Algorithm Deployment System, known as CADS, combines the latest Embedded Graphics Processing Unit with Deepwave Digital's computing stack, enabling AI models to be integrated into Raytheon's legacy RWR systems for AI/ML processing at the sensor. This integration allows CADS to employ cognitive methods to sense, identify and prioritize threats. With the CADS capability, the enhanced RWR will increase aircrew survivability while facilitating the rapid and cost-effective mass deployment of modern AI/ML capabilities.

"The advantages of AI in defense systems are extensive, and our recent CADS test demonstrates how commercially available products, paired with advanced algorithms and cognitive methods, can help the U.S. and its allies outpace peer threats," said Bryan Rosselli, President of Advanced Products and Solutions at Raytheon. "CADS' ability to quickly process data and run third-party algorithms that prioritize threats, with almost no latency will significantly enhance survivability for military personnel."

Initial CADS hardware and cognitive radar processing capabilities were tested on Raytheon's flight test aircraft. CADS performed successfully during additional flight testing and demonstrations on an F-16 at the Air National Guard's test range near Tucson, Arizona in December. The flight tests incorporate containerized AI/ML techniques from the Georgia Tech Research Institute, Vadum, Inc., and Raytheon's cognitive electronic warfare team.

CADS is expected to begin being procured across multiple platforms in early 2025.

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