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Crane Warfare Center Delivers Innovative Testing System

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090718-09
Release Date: 7/18/2009 11:28:00 AM

From Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Public Affairs

CRANE, Ind. (NNS) -- Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane, a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command, delivered its first AN/ALM-296 Tactical Pod Tester (TPT) production unit in support of the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System (TJS) to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest June 26.

AN/ALM-296 TPT is a state-of-the-art test set that proves the functionality of the AN/ALQ-99 TJS, which supports both the EA-6B Prowler and EA-18G Growler Electronic Warfare (EW) aircraft. This innovative system adds a new testing capability that increases the AN/ALQ-99 TJS reliability to jam enemy threats, boosting warfighter protection.

Partnering with commercial industry, NSWC Crane's Electronic Warfare/Information Operations (EW/IO) Center developed, produced and delivered three AN/ALM-296 TPTs to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest. The TPT provides improved diagnostic capability, greater dependability and enhanced maintainability through improved ease of use.

"The Lakehurst and NSWC Crane team never lost confidence in the success of the project," said EA-6B Lead Support Equipment Engineer Ken Ammerman. "The fleet will find the TPT more reliable and easier to use with greater functionality than the previous tester."

NSWC Crane will deliver an additional four systems by fall 2009, and a total of 29 TPTs will be available to the warfighter by summer 2010. NSWC Crane is responsible for the development, acquisition, testing and fielding for the AN/ALM-296 TPT.

"Our experts continue to work diligently to meet vital schedule requirements and successfully deliver these systems to the fleet," said Dan Truex, AN/ALM-296 TPT task manager.

This assignment stems from NSWC Crane's role as an EW Center of Excellence within the Department of Defense. Its nationally recognized leadership offers innovative technical solutions across air, ground and maritime domains.

For more news from Naval Sea Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navsea/.