Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems is currently developing and testing an elevated, persistent, over-the-horizon sensor system designed as a primary defense against cruise missile attacks.

JLENS gives combatant commanders a cost-effective, long-endurance (up to 30 days), over-the-horizon detection and tracking capability, which enables sufficient warning to engage air defense systems and defeat the intruding attack cruise missile threat.

In addition, JLENS complements existing fixed-wing surveillance assets, including AWACS and E-2 surveillance aircraft, by providing long-range wide-area surveillance and precision tracking of airborne (aircraft, ballistic missiles and UAVs) and surface targets, combat identification and communications interoperability.

JLENS consists of two tethered, 74-meter aerostats connected to mobile mooring stations and a communications and processing groups. One aerostat has a surveillance radar and other lifts a fire control radar. The JLENS aerostats are designed to fly up to 10,000 feet and remain aloft and operational for up to 30 days.

The system provides warfighters with a single integrated air picture (SIAP) and the ability to conduct over-the-horizon engagements.