Jacob Kiehlmeier, lead test engineer for the U.S. Navy’s Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band (NGJ-MB) Integrated Test Team (ITT), has been honored as the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Civilian Tester of the Year for 2023. His leadership in overseeing the NGJ-MB electronic warfare pod’s development and rigorous testing was instrumental in advancing the U.S. Navy’s electronic warfare capabilities. The NGJ-MB, an innovative system designed to enhance and replace the existing ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System on the EA-18G Growler aircraft, marks a significant technological step forward.
Kiehlmeier’s contributions centered on steering the ITT through complex testing processes and challenges. According to Captain David Rueter, Program Manager of the Airborne Electronic Attack Systems Program Office (PMA-234), Kiehlmeier’s quick problem-solving and forward-thinking strategies were instrumental in saving the Navy nearly $60 million and months of potential delays. “Mr. Kiehlmeier’s innovative guidance inspired his team to think outside the box,” Rueter explained. “He coordinated a plan to troubleshoot and replace large portions of the system, rather than handling individual issues as they arose, ultimately keeping the program on track.”
The NGJ-MB system is poised to improve the Navy’s electronic warfare capabilities by enhancing the Growler’s ability to disrupt adversarial radar and communications. During the Operational Test Readiness Review (OTRR), Kiehlmeier’s team conducted an extensive range of tests, logging hundreds of hours in flight tests and thousands in test chambers. These tests were completed despite unforeseen challenges, including scheduling conflicts, weather setbacks, and maintenance interruptions, showcasing Kiehlmeier’s adept handling of complex testing logistics.
The OTRR required careful planning and rapid problem-solving by Kiehlmeier and his team. They faced significant setbacks when instrumentation issues and an unexpected maintenance depot period threatened to delay the program by nearly a year. Kiehlmeier’s approach allowed the ITT to resolve issues swiftly, pivot testing schedules, and adapt methodologies to continue gathering critical data. This flexibility and resilience were vital in keeping the program on track and achieving early completion in several key testing areas.
The national ITT comprised developmental and operational test squadrons, contractors, specialized testing chambers, and ranges, as well as over a dozen test aircraft. Under Kiehlmeier’s guidance, the team effectively managed coordination across multiple sites and personnel, optimizing resources and timelines. His leadership ensured that testing data remained consistent and thorough, even while troubleshooting continued.
In addition to his technical expertise, Kiehlmeier’s communication skills were praised by his colleagues. By maintaining open channels with team members across various departments and organizations, he enabled the OTRR to stay on schedule, and the Program Executive Office for Tactical Aircraft Programs subsequently certified the NGJ-MB system as ready for operational testing. Captain Rueter noted that Kiehlmeier’s “vision and diligence kept the test team, and the program focused on what mattered most—the fleet.”
Kiehlmeier’s achievements underline the critical role of innovation and adaptability in the military testing environment, where technological advancements are pivotal to maintaining U.S. defense capabilities. As the NGJ-MB electronic warfare pod moves into operational testing, Kiehlmeier’s recognition as NDIA Civilian Tester of the Year highlights his contribution to national defense and the ongoing evolution of military electronic warfare systems.
