OVERVIEW: SPEAR-EW is a stand-in, air-launched electronic warfare decoy designed to jam and deceive enemy radar systems in contested airspace. It is derived from the turbojet-powered SPEAR-3 missile and optimized for escort jamming and false target generation.

DETAILS: SPEAR stands for Select Precision Effects At Range, with the EW variant configured for electronic attack roles. SPEAR-EW replaces the kinetic warhead of the SPEAR-3 with a DRFM-based jamming payload developed by Leonardo UK, enabling it to execute complex deception and denial techniques. It retains the SPEAR-3’s airframe, turbojet engine, GPS/INS guidance, and datalink, allowing coordinated EW missions. Designed for internal carriage on the F-35B and external carriage on Typhoon, it supports stand-in operations ahead of strike packages.

FUNCTION: After launch, SPEAR-EW navigates to its target area using pre-programmed waypoints or real-time datalink updates, then activates its jammer to disrupt, deny, or deceive enemy radar systems. It can simulate multiple false targets or degrade radar performance, increasing survivability for crewed aircraft and live munitions.

NOTE:
IOC: SPEAR-3 (base) expected ~2028; SPEAR-EW demonstrator phase began 2019, funded 2022–2023
Operators: United Kingdom
Platforms: Eurofighter Typhoon (integration underway), F-35B (planned)
Conflict used in: None (not yet operational)

SOURCE: MBDA: https://www.mbda-systems.com/product/spear-ew ; Leonardo UK: https://www.leonardo.com/en/news-and-stories-detail/-/detail/spear-ew-leonardo-drfm-jammer-raf ; UK MOD: https://des.mod.uk/raf-electronic-warfare-spear-ew ; Jane’s Weapons: Air-Launched