The US Army is field-testing a new system designed to detect and interpret signals across the electromagnetic spectrum, giving soldiers a clearer picture of their digital footprint and nearby threats.
Called the Spectrum Situational Awareness System (S2AS), the tool can spot interference, monitor emissions from command posts, and identify intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance threats.
It can also pinpoint the source of suspicious electromagnetic activities, whether originating from friendly forces, partners, or adversaries.
This level of situational awareness helps locate enemy positions, expose potential threats, and enhance force protection in the field. It also provides real-time guidance to commanders and troops in environments where radio jamming and signal detection can compromise locations.
“For the longest time, we’ve been focused on understanding the signals that our enemy has emitted,” said Lt. Col. John Cross, Product Manager for Tactical Spectrum Warfare at the Program Executive Office.
“We didn’t really understand how we were being targeted in the [electromagnetic spectrum]. So, we said we need a tool that’s dedicated to looking at what kind of electromagnetic emissions that we are actually creating and what can we do to control those.”
S2AS supports both handheld and vehicle-mounted configurations, with a modular design that fits various mission requirements.
Army Eyes Rapid Rollout
The new spectrum tool remains in prototype testing, with field exercises scheduled through the end of fiscal year 2025. Early integration efforts will focus on Transformation in Contact units.
If successful, the army plans to field 10 to 15 systems by late 2025, followed by three additional rollout cycles in fiscal 2026. The goal is to deploy 40 to 60 systems by the end of fiscal 2027.
A rapid fielding approach, modeled after the Terrestrial Layer System–Brigade Combat Team Manpack program, is also under consideration, potentially equipping one to three brigades per month depending on operational demand.
To support ongoing development and demonstrations, the army awarded a 14-month contract worth $6.1 million to Ohio-based 3dB Labs Inc.
“By integrating feedback from Transformation in Contact units, including Electronic Warfare Soldiers and Spectrum Managers, we’re ensuring the system is specifically tailored to meet their operational needs.”
“S2AS directly enhances the survivability and effectiveness of our soldiers on the battlefield,” said Ken Strayer, Project Manager for Electronic Warfare and Cyber.
