Saab's U/SME-400 ESM System Digital Advancements for Next-Gen Maritime Surveillance

In a recent media briefing, Saab unveiled the latest advancements in its Electronic Support Measures (ESM) capabilities with the U/SME-400 family, a sophisticated suite designed to elevate maritime situational awareness in an era where radar signals are becoming increasingly complex and elusive. Saab’s U/SME-400 family brings state-of-the-art enhancements to naval ESM, aiming to equip vessels with an essential sensor system when operating in stealth, or "radio silent," modes.

Francois Raubenheimer, Saab’s business development and marketing executive, emphasized the critical role of ESM in today’s naval operations. As vessels approach potential targets undetected, ESM systems provide a covert means to detect radar signals from nearby threats without broadcasting the vessel’s presence. This reliance on passive surveillance underscores the need for advanced ESM capabilities, especially as modern radar systems evolve to reduce detection risks through low-power or “stealthy” emissions.

The U/SME-400 family introduces a third-generation series, building on Saab’s legacy with a fully digital, wideband architecture. By integrating a digital receiver, the U/SME-400 can more effectively detect, classify, and track intricate radar signals, even in signal-rich and potentially hostile environments. This leap to digital enables several game-changing features: enhanced processing speed, resilience against interference tactics like jamming and spoofing, and flexibility to adapt to new threats with minimal hardware modifications. In addition, the system’s ability to track overlapping signals contributes to a faster and more accurate tactical picture, a significant advantage in maritime combat scenarios.

The U/SME-400 series includes three main variants tailored to fit a range of naval platforms:

• SME-450 for larger vessels like corvettes and frigates
• SME-420 designed for mid-sized patrol ships, mine warfare vessels, and smaller submarines
• SME-410 aimed at uncrewed surface and underwater vessels (USVs and UUVs)

Each variant offers a wide frequency coverage and impressive bandwidth for capturing signals. The 450 and 420 models cover a standard frequency range of 1–18 GHz, while the smaller 410 operates within 2–18 GHz. All models have the option to extend this range up to 40 GHz, ensuring they can detect and intercept a broader spectrum of signals. Notably, the system’s instantaneous bandwidth of 16 GHz equips it with a high probability of intercept, ensuring that no active signals go unnoticed.

The U/SME-400 is not only versatile across platforms but also enhances data handling through its integrated interface bridge with combat management systems (CMS). This connectivity to CMS allows seamless data transfer, helping operators compile a comprehensive situational picture in real time. Furthermore, the system includes tools for data library management and post-mission analysis, facilitating a cycle of continuous intelligence refinement and readiness.

The design of the U/SME-400 has also prioritized operator usability, simplifying the human-machine interface to reduce operator workload and improve tactical decision-making under pressure. With ESM systems becoming an increasingly integral component of modern naval warfare, such enhancements to usability are crucial.

Saab’s U/SME-400 is currently undergoing final testing, with production scheduled to begin by late 2025 and initial deliveries anticipated by 2028. Saab plans to showcase this next-generation ESM suite at the upcoming Euronaval exposition in Paris, aiming to attract attention from potential customers seeking advanced electronic warfare solutions for a modernized fleet.

In a world of evolving radar technologies and electronic warfare challenges, Saab’s U/SME-400 family marks a significant step forward. Its digital leap and multi-platform adaptability are poised to give navies around the world a strategic advantage, enabling them to operate with enhanced awareness and stealth in increasingly contested maritime environments.