Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Gulfstream designs, develops, manufactures, markets, and services business jet aircraft.

Charles Alcock

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The Italian government this week confirmed an order for a pair of Gulfstream G550s equipped for electronic warfare (EW) applications. On Monday, it awarded a $300 million contract to L3Harris Technologies, which, in partnership with mission systems developer BAE Systems, will install electromagnetic attack systems in the aircraft.
According to L3Harris, the procurement marks the first time the U.S. government has given approval for the EA-37B Compass Call EW platform to be sold to an international ally. The G550s will give the Italian air force airborne jamming capability to disrupt enemy command and control communications, radars, and navigation systems, and have a range of up to 4,410 nm.&nbsp;
When delivered, the G550s will join the Italian defense ministry’s special missions fleet as part of the wider Joint Airborne Multi-Mission Multi-Sensor System program. L3Harris is already modifying two other G550s for intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) roles as part of this program.
“We are expanding our support of Italy’s armed forces by equipping them with modern mission technology ready for managing a dynamic global landscape,” said Jason Lambert, president of ISR at L3Harris. “Our team will provide Italy with solutions to augment its national security and increase its interoperability with the U.S. and strategic allies.”
The aircraft are receiving some initial modification at the Gulfstream factory in Savannah, Georgia, before being ferried to L3Harris for systems integration.

News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

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A pair of G550s equipped by L3Harris will allow the Italian air force to disrupt enemy command and control communications, radars, and navigation systems.

L3Harris To Equip Electronics Warfare G550s for Italy

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In this article

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