AN/ALQ-218

The AN/ALQ-218 is an American airborne electronic warfare radar warning receiver system, found on Northrop Grumman EA-6B Prowler and Boeing EA-18G Growler aircraft.
In accordance with the Joint Electronics Type Designation System, the "AN/ALQ-218" designation represents the 218th design of an Army-Navy airborne electronic device for special countermeasures equipment. The JETDS system also now is used to name all Department of Defense and some NATO electronic systems.

Description

The AN/ALQ-218 is an airborne passive radar warning receiver / electronic warfare support measures / electronic signals intelligence sensor system designed for airborne situational awareness and signal intelligence gathering. It detects, identifies, locates and analyzes sources of radio frequency emissions. The current version AN/ALQ-2182 is manufactured by Northrop Grumman.
The AN/ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band is able to integrate with AN/ALQ-218.

Platforms

The ALQ-218 is mainly featured aboard the US Navy's EA-18G Growler aircraft, which has replaced the EA-6B Prowler. The ALQ-218 was previously on the EA-6B Prowler, after which the Improved Capability III ALQ-218 was modified and integrated into the EA-18G's Airborne Electronic Attack system. Avionics from the EA-6B were modified to fit into the gun bay and wing tip pods of the Growler.
The EA-18G may carry up to an additional five jamming pods on under wing pylons. The system is being considered for modification to serve on unmanned aerial vehicles. The Growler is part of the same family of aircraft as the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.