BAE's Smart D2: A big leap in defense tech in Austin

BAE Systems, a pioneer in defense technology, is pushing the boundaries of innovation to counter evolving threats. As Program Director Kim Unberhagen explains, "The threats are evolving rapidly, and we're committed to staying ahead of the curve."

BAE invested $150 million in a new engineering and production facility in Austin. BAE says it's focused on a clear mission: "We protect those who protect us." Unberhagen emphasizes, "This mission drives everything we do, from electronic warfare to autonomy."

One such innovation is BAE's Smart D2 technology. As Technical Director Matthew Jamrog describes, "Smart D2 is a countermeasure dispenser system, the last line of defense for our aircrews."

How does Smart D2 work? It instantly detects incoming enemy fire and deploys flares and chaff to confuse missiles. Jamrog explains, "The system operates in milliseconds, identifying threats and providing countermeasures before there's time for human intervention."

What sets Smart D2 apart? Its advanced automation, communication, and intelligence capabilities enable it to adapt to various threats. Additionally, it's compatible with existing ALE-47 systems, making it a seamless upgrade for aircraft.

BAE's commitment to innovation is unwavering. As Jamrog states, "We're moving at the speed of light to counter emerging threats. This is the pace required to defeat our adversaries, and that's exactly what we're doing at BAE Systems."

By developing cutting-edge technologies like Smart D2, BAE is ensuring that those who protect us have the tools they need to stay one step ahead.