Starting From Scratch

The RAAF’s Growler airborne electronic attack force is nearing initial operational capability

The Royal Australian Air Force’s EA-18G Growler airborne electronic attack (AEA) capability is rapidly approaching a state of maturity, one that will see it achieve an initial operational capability (IOC) in the coming months.

The RAAF is only the second operator of arguably the world’s most advanced AEA capability, after the US Navy. While there may be more powerful jammer systems mounted on larger converted passenger or military transport aircraft, the ability for a Growler to be embedded within a combat aircraft package and escort it ‘downtown’ is arguably it’s greatest strength, giving the EA-18G a versatility no other AEA capability can match.