The Army is purchasing hundreds of portable electronic warfare attack and scanner systems, costing nearly $100 million, designed by Mastodon Design, a subsidiary of CACI. This system, named the Terrestrial Layer System–Brigade Combat Team Manpack, will be the first dismounted electromagnetic attack/electromagnetic support program of record for the Army. It scans the electromagnetic spectrum for enemy activity and requires two operators.
This system will be fielded to units this year and eventually to electronic warfare units in every Army brigade combat team. Both Russia and Ukraine heavily rely on electronic warfare tactics in their ongoing conflict, using signals collection and electromagnetic attacks frequently. Portable electronic warfare systems have become crucial due to the threat of cheap loitering munitions, making open ground movement dangerous for soldiers.
Army leaders believe the Manpack system will help teach soldiers and commanders to limit their electromagnetic signature and prepare for jamming in training scenarios. By exposing soldiers to electromagnetic interference during training, they will be better equipped to handle it in real-world situations.
