The pilot for a new course on the AN/SLQ-32(V)6 electronic warfare (EW) system wrapped up at Information Warfare Training Command (IWTC) Corry Station, March 13.

The course provides cryptologic technician technical students, both new accession Sailors and seasoned fleet returnees, with the fundamental knowledge and training necessary to operate the latest version of the AN/SLQ-32. The integrated shipboard combat system performs the mission of early detection, signal analysis, threat warning and protection from anti-ship missiles.

"This module represents a significant change from previous versions," said Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 1st Class Scott Searcy, an instructor for the course. "Our new accession technicians will typically be fulfilling more operational roles than senior Sailors, so it's important to balance the classes with more junior students."

The AN/SLQ-32(V)6 provides a full suite of EW capabilities that can be managed and controlled manually from a console or semi-manually or automatically by the host combat management system.

"We're looking forward to teaching students about it," said Searcy. "As technology continues to move forward, we need to make sure our technicians have the most up-to-date skill sets for operating advanced equipment."

The class covers computer networking skills and the theory and function of the AN/SLQ-32(V)6 components. At the end of the course, students use the skills they learn to repair damages to the system during a troubleshooting exercise.

"This was a challenging course on a very complicated system," said Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 1st Class Joshua Chapman, a student assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71). "This new module opens up a whole new world of warfighting capabilities. It's the future of EW, and I'm glad to be a part of it."

Information Warfare Training Command Corry Station, as part of the Center for Information Warfare Training, provides a continuum of training to Navy and joint service personnel that prepares them to conduct information warfare across the full spectrum of military operations.

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