Vital role of EW courses

THE field of Electronic Warfare (EW) is one of the fastest growing and changing technology areas of the ADF.

The introduction of new airborne platforms such as AEW&C will see the reliance of EW-based tactics and technology reach a new level. To maximise the effectiveness of the ADF’s EW assets, it is vital aircrew are appropriately trained in EW theory and its operational use.

To meet this need, the Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Unit (JEWOSU) at RAAF Base Edinburgh conducts a four week tri-service EW course several times a year.

While the course is aimed at aircrew, other categories are welcome to apply. The course regularly has students of the engineering, intelligence and air defence categories. The mix of students from different services, backgrounds and categories ensures a wide variety of innovative ideas are discussed throughout the course.

The four-week course includes a 60 per cent lecture phase where EW theory, the operation of in-service EW equipment, threat systems as well as future EW systems and projects are taught. This provides a good grounding for the understanding of the operational aspects of EW.

Thirty per cent of the course is dedicated to syndicate exercises where students research and present on EW systems or operational EW scenarios. This phase is specifically used to give an operational focus to the theory the students have learnt.

Students will gain a good level of knowledge on the EW equipment fitted to their platforms and the operational considerations for its use.

The remaining 10 per cent is used to visit local units such as No. 92 Wing, 16 Air Defence Regiment and the Defence Science and Technology Organisation to see in-service and future EW systems in action.

JEWOSU also runs a two-three day short EW course that is presented at units throughout Australia. The course provides generic EW and systems knowledge for a group of personnel who don’t need or don’t have the time for the four-week course. It can be tailored to provide specific information relating to a platform, threat system or EW theory.

For further details on the content of the EW course visit http://ednww002/jewosu/ (under JEWOSU overview) or contact Warrant Officer Bruce McAndie on (08) 8393 4714.

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