OVERVIEW: The ELL‑8270 is an Israeli towed electronic warfare decoy designed to protect aircraft from radar-guided missiles. Deployed on a cable behind the host aircraft, it acts autonomously as the final line of defense.

DETAILS: Developed by ELTA (a division of Israel Aerospace Industries) and introduced around 2018, the ELL‑8270 is a battery-powered, self-contained pod that requires no command inputs or power connections from the towing aircraft . It emits radar signals to mimic the aircraft's signature and lure inbound radar-guided missiles away. Lightweight and compatible with all aircraft types, it can be winched back into the aircraft or jettisoned if needed.

ELTA stands for Electronikiya L’Tekhnologiyot Avionika (or Electronics Technologies). The ELL‑8270 is unique for its fully autonomous operation.

FUNCTION: Upon deployment, the ELL‑8270 trails behind the aircraft and generates deceptive radar signatures detected by incoming missiles. It functions as a “bait” decoy, steering radar-guided threats away from the host.

NOTE:
IOC: 2018 (IAI unveiling; system introduction)
Operators: Israel

SOURCE: U.S. Department of Defense China Military Reports: https://media.defense.gov/2023/Oct/19/2003329692/-1/-1/1/2023-MILITARY-AND-SECURITY-DEVELOPMENTS-INVOLVING-THE-PEOPLE'S-REPUBLIC-OF-CHINA.PDF ; IsraelDefense: https://www.israeldefense.co.il/en/node/32868 ; Israel Aerospace Industries press release (Epicos.com) : https://www.epicos.com/article/225818/israel-aerospace-industries-unveils-advanced-towed-decoy ; Defense‑Aerospace.com: https://www.defense-aerospace.com/israel-aerospace-industries-unveils-advanced-towed-decoy