The CAEW aircraft (Conformal Airborne Early Warning, Italian designation E-550A) is the most advanced multi-sensor system with functions of airborne surveillance, command, control, and communications in service with European air forces.
The AEW-BM&C capability (Airborne Early Warning, Battlefield Management & Communication) is now an essential tool to ensure an adequate extension of the national airspace surveillance capability (Homeland Defence/Security). At the core of CAEW is the installation of the Elta EL/W-2085 electronically scanned radar system on the airframe, integrated with additional electronic systems (COMINT, ELINT, ESM, IFF, RWR) to provide high situational awareness in real-time, with a 360° coverage and long-range capability. 

The mission system has both Maritime Patrol and Battlefield Management capabilities, thanks to its compatibility with ground or sea surface personnel’s Rover systems (transmitting images, including video, for interpreting the operational environment).
With the ability to carry almost 19 tons of fuel, it can remain on target for an extended period based on mission parameters, with significant maximum flight altitudes and transfer speeds.
It is designed and built in Israel on the basis of the Gulfstream G-550 business jet twin-engine.