AUSA 2026: Northrop Grumman notes DRAKE updates
The DRAKE system is shown here aboard the guided-missile submarine USS Ohio. (Michael Fabey)
Northrop Grumman continues to provide timely software and hardware updates for its Drone Restricted Access Using Known Electromagnetic Warfare (DRAKE) software-defined radio based on real-time operational feedback, according to Michael Johnson, Northrop Grumman fellow.
One of the recent upgrades includes an Android interface with DRAKE to create easier system operation, Johnson told reporters during a round-table discussion of the system in advance of the Association of United States Army (AUSA) 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition, which begins 12 October in Washington, DC.
The DRAKE system offers a mounted or dismounted capability to detect, alert and track small drones – and then be switched seamlessly for kinetic counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) jamming operations, Johnson noted.
The system has been developed and deployed throughout US forces for army, US Navy (USN) and US Air Force (USAF) operations, he said.
USN officials have confirmed to Janes that DRAKE systems are being deployed on guided-missile submarines (SSGNs) such as the USS Ohio (SSGN 726).
“As they [DRAKE systems] are deployed, they are interacting with the UAS systems and learning from them,” he said. Using that feedback, Northrop Grumman is able to adapt the software-defined system and even change configuration, Johnson added.
“They [operators] can monitor those drones and either or turn on jamming or not depending on the situation,” Johnson said, noting that sometimes the rules of engagement can prohibit kinetic C-UAS operations.
For more, please see: Special Report: US Navy notes unmanned milestones and progress towards tailored force
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