AN/ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System

Full Specifications

The AN/ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System is a U.S. airborne electronic attack system designed to disrupt hostile radar and communications systems. Rather than carrying conventional kinetic weapons, the ALQ-99 uses electronic energy to interfere with adversary sensors and communications networks, supporting suppression of enemy integrated air defenses.

The system is carried externally as jammer pods. Each pod contains a ram-air turbine generator, two selectable transmitter modules, associated antennas, and a universal exciter. The architecture allows transmitters and antennas to be configured for different frequency ranges and mission requirements. The EA-18G Growler can carry up to five ALQ-99 pods, with two under each wing and one under the fuselage.

The ALQ-99 first achieved operational capability in 1971 aboard the EA-6B Prowler. It later became part of the EA-18G Growler electronic warfare suite, with the Growler deploying the system operationally in 2010. The system has received multiple upgrades during its service life.

Manufacturer

The ALQ-99 is a U.S. government program involving multiple contractors rather than a single publicly identified manufacturer for the complete system. The U.S. Navy and Naval Air Systems Command manage the capability. Its operational integration is associated primarily with the EA-6B Prowler and EA-18G Growler.

Speed and Range

The ALQ-99 is a pod-mounted electronic warfare system and therefore does not have an independent flight speed or standalone operational range. Its performance depends on the aircraft carrying it, transmitter configuration, electromagnetic environment, and mission profile. Public U.S. Navy sources do not provide a single maximum jamming range for the complete system.

Cost/Price

A reliable public unit price for the complete AN/ALQ-99 system is not available. Costs vary according to pod configuration, transmitter modules, upgrades, sustainment, and integration requirements. The system should not be assigned a specific retail or procurement price without authoritative contract documentation.

FAQs