OVERVIEW: The Gulfstream G550 AEW, known in Israeli service as the Nahshon-Eitam or CAEW (Conformal Airborne Early Warning), is an airborne early warning and control aircraft equipped with AESA radar and C4I systems. It entered service with the Israeli Air Force in 2008 to provide long-range airspace surveillance, early warning, and networked battle management.

DETAILS: The Nahshon-Eitam AEW is based on the Gulfstream G550 platform and modified by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Elta Systems. It is equipped with the EL/W-2085 radar system, which consists of conformal L-band AESA radar arrays along the fuselage, providing full 360-degree coverage without the need for a rotating dome. Powered by two Rolls-Royce BR710C4-11 turbofan engines, the G550 cruises at Mach 0.85 and has a range exceeding 12,500 km. The platform supports high-altitude, long-endurance missions with integrated C4I systems for tactical coordination and real-time threat tracking.

The Nahshon-Eitam includes multiple mission consoles, SATCOM links, and secure data-sharing systems. It is interoperable with Israeli and allied air and missile defense networks. The conformal radar configuration allows a reduced radar cross-section and improved aerodynamics, enhancing responsiveness and survivability in contested airspace.

TYPE: Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) Aircraft

FUNCTION: Detects, identifies, and tracks airborne targets to support national airspace defense, early warning, and real-time battle management. Its endurance and high-altitude capability enable persistent surveillance over large operational areas.

NOTE:
IOC: 2003 (G550 base model), 2008 (G550 CAEW Nahshon-Eitam)
Manufacturer: Gulfstream Aerospace (USA), radar system by IAI/Elta Systems (Israel)
Operators: Israel
Conflict used in: Regional surveillance and operational readiness missions (from 2008)

SOURCE:
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI): https://www.iai.co.il/p/ELW-2085 ; Elta Systems: https://www.iai.co.il/group/elta-systems ; Israeli Air Force: https://www.iaf.org.il ; Jane’s Radar and Electronic Warfare Systems: https://www.janes.com