The SPECTRA system carries out reliable long-range detection, identification and localisation of threats, allowing the pilot to instantly select the most effective defensive measures based on combinations of radar jamming, infrared or radar decoying and evasive manoeuvres. It is fully integrated with other systems in the aircraft, and it provides a multi-spectral threat warning capability against hostile radars, missiles and lasers. Jointly developed by Thales and MBDA, the SPECTRA internal “Electronic Warfare” (EW) system is the cornerstone of the Rafale’s outstanding survivability against the latest airborne and ground threats. SPECTRA – internal Electronic Warfare suite The AESA offers an unprecedented growth-potential for the future. The RBE2-AESA is fully compatible in terms of detection range with the long range METEOR air-to-air missile. Detection and tracking of multiple naval targets.

Presentation in real time to the crew of high resolution 2D ground maps for the detection, identification and designation of ground targets and for navigation updates,.

The Rafale is the sole new generation combat aircraft to currently propose such a function,

Real time generation of three-dimensional maps for terrain-following above uncharted terrain in blind conditions.

Ability to track targets in, or out of the search domain, bringing the ultimate advantage in air combat,.

All-aspect look-up and look-down detection and tracking of multiple air targets for close combat and long-range interception in the entire detection and tracking volume, in all weather and in severe jamming environments,.

The AESA provides a wide range of functions: In October 2012, the first Rafale fighter equipped with an “Active Electronically Scanned Array” (AESA) RBE2 radar was delivered to the French MoD.

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