Air defense

Early warning RF detection capability

Modern air defense depends on detecting threats as early as possible, without revealing your own position. Passive RF sensors deliver that capability.

Operating silently, they detect and geolocate hostile emitters in real time, allowing air defenders to maintain EMCON, gain valuable decision time, and cue other sensors or weapon systems for precise targeting.

Passive RF technology augments traditional radar systems—which are effective but exposed—by adding persistent, rapidly deployable sensors that deliver full Electronic Support Measures (ESM) capability. Aligned with the ‘mix, mass, modularity’ principles of modern IAMD, these sensors enable defenses that are flexible, scalable, and reconfigurable.

CRFS sensor networks seamlessly integrate into layered defense architectures—from Forward Operating Bases to strategic infrastructure—delivering real-time RF intelligence. The TRL‑9 technology fills a critical gap in an integrated air defense ‘Find, Fix, Track, Target, Engage, Assess (F2T2EA)’ process.

Passive RF sensing for IAMD

Maintain mission success

Multi-Domain, non-library-based detection

Deployment options

Vehicle integrated

Mobile ESM and C2

Rapid deployment kit

Portable sensing for dismounted operations

Fixed building

Infrastructure mounted

Fixed mast/tower

Permanent mast deployment option

RF/EW payload

SIGINT integration for unmanned platforms

Short range air defense

Critical infrastructure – up to 20 km

Mid-range air defense

Regional picture – up to 100 km

Long range air defense

National REMP – 1000 km +

Air defense applications

Radar augmentation

A passive RF sensor network complements radar by acting as an early warning system, detecting hostile airborne targets without alerting the enemy and cuing targeting radar.

Detect the signal of interest, not the platform

Custom built signal detectors search for specific signals (including telemetry, video links, payload data transfer) rather than for specific platforms.

Highly accurate 3D TDoA geolocation

Time Difference of Arrival accurately geolocates the position of RF emitters in three dimensions by analyzing the time difference between each sensor and using advanced algorithms.

Operate in GNSS-denied environments

CRFS has several tools to continue spectrum monitoring and geolocation missions in GNSS-denied environments.

Operating under EMCON

Passive RF sensors allow air defenders to operate under EMCON as they can listen without emitting, increasing survivability and helping to monitor blue force comms.