China has developed "invisibility" technology for AWACS aircraft — the signals have become elusive for air defense

Vulnerability of AWACS aircraft: a challenge requiring innovation

Long-range radar detection and control (AWACS) aircraft, such as the Chinese KJ-2000 and KJ-500, play a key role in modern air operations, acting as "air command centers." However, their powerful radar radiation, which is necessary to survey vast territories and control groups, makes them easily detectable. This makes them high-priority targets for air defense and interceptor fighters.

For a long time, this vulnerability remained a weak point in the Air Force's strategy. Now China, according to scientists, has found a technological solution.

A new method of masking radio signals

The Chinese Air Force and leading research institutes have developed an innovative method that makes the radio signals of AWACS aircraft virtually invulnerable to interception and geolocation. Instead of emitting a single, easily identifiable signal, the system distributes radiation between multiple antennas, each operating at a slightly different frequency.

This approach dramatically reduces the likelihood of enemy aircraft detection and tracking.

How does a "chaotic" signal work?

The method can be compared to a choir of hundreds of singers singing the same melody, but each with a slight deviation in tone. At close range, the chorus sounds harmonious and clear, but with distance, the sound becomes chaotic and unintelligible to the listener. Similarly, the signals from the antennas of the AWACS aircraft, coordinated on board, merge at a distance into "radio noise", which is extremely difficult to decode or use to determine the direction to the source.

For electronic warfare and air defense systems of the enemy, such a signal is lost against the background of natural interference, which provides a high degree of secrecy.

Strategic advantage in electronic warfare

This breakthrough gives Chinese aviation a significant advantage. AWACS aircraft will be able to stay in the combat zone longer without risking being shot down, and continue to coordinate the actions of fighters, attack drones and ground forces. This increases the stability of the entire air operating network.

The technology can also be adapted to other platforms such as reconnaissance aircraft, drones, and ground—based radars, enhancing the overall electronic protection of the PLA Armed Forces.

Saab offers Canada the GlobalEye long-range radar detection and control system at CANSEC 2025

GlobalEye

On May 28, 2025, at the CANSEC defense exhibition in Ottawa, the Swedish aerospace and defense company Saab announced its intention to offer Canada the GlobalEye long-range radar detection and Control System (AEW&C). This proposal is aimed at meeting Canada's urgent need for modern and effective airspace surveillance capabilities.

GlobalEye is a multifunctional platform capable of simultaneously performing the tasks of long-range radar detection, air traffic control and control over the marine environment. The system is equipped with advanced radars and sensors that provide a wide range and high accuracy of target detection in various conditions.

Saab's proposal underscores Canada's commitment to modernize its defense capabilities and enhance airspace security in the face of growing global threats. GlobalEye can become a key element in the national defense system, providing timely warning and coordination of military forces.

Saab already has experience in successfully implementing GlobalEye in the armed forces of other countries, which confirms the reliability and effectiveness of this system. The company's participation in CANSEC 2025 demonstrates its willingness to cooperate and support Canada's defense needs.