RTX’s Raytheon business has successfully completed flight testing with the first ever artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML)-powered radar warning receiver (RWR) system for a fourth-generation aircraft, the company announced on 24 February 2025.
The Cognitive Algorithm Deployment System (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 prioritise 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.
Initial CADS hardware and cognitive radar processing capabilities were tested on Raytheon’s flight test aircraft. CADS then 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 2024. The flight tests incorporate containerised AI/ML techniques from the Georgia Tech Research Institute, Vadum Inc, and Raytheon’s cognitive electronic warfare team.
“The advantages of AI in defence systems are extensive, and our recent CADS test demonstrates how commercially available products, paired with advanced algorithms and cognitive methods, can help the US and its allies outpace peer threats,” Bryan Rosselli, president of Advanced Products and Solutions at Raytheon, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “CADS’ ability to quickly process data and run third-party algorithms that prioritise threats with almost no latency will significantly enhance survivability for military personnel.”
CADS is expected to begin being procured across multiple platforms in early 2025.
