How the F-35 uses the ALE-70 to outsmart enemy missiles
The F-35 Lightning II is a 5th generation stealth fighter that can perform a variety of missions, such as air superiority, strike, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. One of the key features that makes the F-35 so stealthy is its ability to use the ALE-70 Towed Decoy, a small device that can create a false target for enemy radar-guided missiles. In this article, I will explain how the ALE-70 works, how it can be used in different scenarios, how it compares to other towed decoy systems, and why it gives the F-35 a significant advantage over its adversaries.
How the ALE-70 works
The ALE-70 is a small device that is stored under a hatch next to the flare dispenser on the F-35. It can be deployed on a fiber optic cable behind the aircraft, creating a false target for the enemy radar. The ALE-70 can emit jamming signals that confuse or deceive the enemy radar, making it think that the decoy is the actual aircraft. This can lure the missile away from the F-35, or make it miss its target. The ALE-70 can also be programmed to perform different maneuvers, such as changing speed, altitude, or direction, to further enhance its effectiveness. The ALE-70 is designed and produced by BAE Systems, and can be carried by all variants of the F-35.
How the ALE-70 can be used in different scenarios
The ALE-70 can be used in different scenarios, depending on the mission profile, the threat level, and the environment. For example, when the F-35 is flying low and fast, it can use the ALE-70 to counter low-frequency radars that can detect its presence, such as those used by some surface-to-air missile systems. The ALE-70 can create a larger radar cross-section than the F-35, attracting the missile to the decoy instead of the aircraft. Alternatively, when the F-35 is approaching a hostile air defense system, it can use the ALE-70 to spoof the enemy radar, making it think that the F-35 is coming from a different direction, or that there are multiple F-35s in the area. This can create confusion and delay the enemy’s response, giving the F-35 more time to strike or evade. The ALE-70 can also be used in conjunction with other electronic warfare systems, such as the AN/ASQ-239 Barracuda, to create a more comprehensive and integrated defense against radar threats.
How the ALE-70 compares to other towed decoy systems
The ALE-70 is not the only towed decoy system in service, but it is one of the most advanced and effective ones. Other towed decoy systems include the ALE-50, used by the F-16, F-18, and B-1B, and the Towed Radar Decoy, used by the Eurofighter Typhoon. The ALE-50 is a similar concept to the ALE-70, but it is larger, heavier, and less stealthy. It also has a shorter cable length, which limits its maneuverability and range. The ALE-50 can only jam one frequency band at a time, while the ALE-70 can jam multiple bands simultaneously. The ALE-50 also requires manual activation, while the ALE-70 can be automatically deployed and controlled by the F-35’s computer system. The Towed Radar Decoy is a newer system that is similar to the ALE-70 in size and weight, but it has a different design and function. It does not emit jamming signals, but instead reflects the enemy radar waves back to the source, creating a false echo. The Towed Radar Decoy can also change its shape and polarization to mimic the aircraft’s signature. However, the Towed Radar Decoy is less flexible and adaptable than the ALE-70, as it cannot perform different maneuvers or jam different frequency bands. It also has a shorter cable length and a lower deployment speed than the ALE-70.
Why the ALE-70 gives the F-35 a significant advantage over its adversaries
The ALE-70 is one of the most sophisticated and effective towed decoy systems in the world, and it gives the F-35 a significant edge over its adversaries. The ALE-70 enhances the F-35’s stealth capabilities, by reducing its radar signature and diverting enemy missiles. The ALE-70 also increases the F-35’s survivability, by providing an additional layer of protection and deception. The ALE-70 also enables the F-35 to perform more challenging and complex missions, by allowing it to operate in more contested and denied airspace. The ALE-70 also complements the F-35’s other advanced features, such as its sensor fusion, network connectivity, and data sharing. The ALE-70 is not only a defensive tool, but also an offensive one, as it can be used to lure the enemy into exposing itself and becoming vulnerable to the F-35’s weapons. The ALE-70 is not only a stealthy device, but also a smart one, as it can adapt to different situations and threats.
Conclusion
The F-35 is not only stealthy, but also smart, and the ALE-70 is one of its most sinister capabilities. The ALE-70 is a small device that can create a big problem for the enemy, by fooling its radar and missiles. The ALE-70 is a versatile device that can be used in different scenarios, by performing different functions and maneuvers. The ALE-70 is a superior device that can outperform other towed decoy systems, by being more stealthy, effective, and adaptable. The ALE-70 is a crucial device that can give the F-35 a decisive advantage over its adversaries, by enhancing its stealth, survivability, and lethality. The ALE-70 is not just a towed decoy, but a game-changer.
