Saab Arexis

Saab Arexis is an advanced electronic warfare (EW) suite developed by Saab for the JAS 39E Gripen fighter aircraft. The system represents a significant advancement in Swedish EW capability and is one of the most advanced fighter-mounted EW systems in the world.

Arexis provides a comprehensive EW capability encompassing:

1. Electronic Support Measures (ESM): Wideband RF receivers and signal processing systems that detect, identify, and geolocate enemy radar and communication emissions. The system provides comprehensive battlespace electromagnetic awareness.

2. Electronic Attack (EA): Active jamming capabilities that can disrupt enemy radar, communications, and air defense systems. The system uses advanced jamming techniques including digital radio frequency memory (DRFM) and cognitive jamming algorithms.

3. Self-Protection: Countermeasures including chaff, flares, and towed decoys that protect the Gripen from missile threats. The system integrates with the aircraft's defensive aids suite.

4. Spectrum Management: Management of the Gripen's own electromagnetic emissions to minimize detectability while maintaining communication and navigation capability.

Key technical features of Arexis include:

• Ultra-wideband digital receivers covering the full threat spectrum
• Active electronically scanned array (AESA) antennas for directional jamming
• AI-driven signal processing for rapid threat identification and response
• Open architecture allowing rapid software updates to counter new threats
• Integration with the Gripen E's mission system for coordinated EW operations

The Arexis EW suite is a critical element of the Gripen E's combat capability. Electronic warfare is increasingly important in modern air combat, as evidenced by the conflict in Ukraine where EW has played a decisive role. The ability to detect, classify, and defeat enemy air defense systems is essential for survival in contested airspace.

Sweden's development of the Arexis EW suite reflects the country's long tradition of advanced EW capability. Swedish EW expertise dates back to the Cold War and has been continuously developed through programs like the CARL-GUSTAF countermeasures system and various naval EW systems. The Arexis suite represents the culmination of decades of Swedish EW investment.

Sweden's recent accession to NATO (2024) has created new opportunities for EW cooperation with allied nations. The Arexis system's advanced capabilities are of significant interest to NATO, particularly for integration with allied air forces operating in the Baltic and Arctic regions where Russian air defense threats are concentrated.

Saab has also offered Arexis technology for export markets and for integration on other platforms. The system's modular architecture allows it to be adapted for different aircraft types, including unmanned systems and naval platforms.