A $6.3 million U.S. Air Force task order has been given to Exelis for the supply of equipment to test radar warning receivers on aircraft.

The task order for AN/PLM-4 Radar Signal Simulators comes under a 2012 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract.

"The AN/PLM-4 continues to be the signal simulator of choice for testing both air and ground vehicles," said Jennifer Schoonover, vice president of the Exelis Communications Solutions business area. "This unique capability allows airmen to confidently enter harm's way knowing their electronic warfare systems will detect current and emerging enemy threats in the battlespace."

The portable radar signal simulator tests the capability of radar warning receivers, electronic surveillance measures and electronic counter-measures on aircraft, surface ships, submarines and land vehicles against the latest hostile threats.

The system operates by battery or external AC power and can be carried and operated easily by a single person.

Using internal antennas, the RSS radiates toward the System Under Test, allowing the user to evaluate SUT operation or perform diagnostics. Exelis said that with its remote terminal, the user can be seated in the aircraft under test and visually determine the operability of the RWR by observing the SUT displays.

Exelis said the RSS systems will be produced at its facility in Fort Wayne, Ind. Additional contract details, however, were not disclosed.