Army Sets Up EW Career Field

The Army is creating a new electronic warfare career field for soldiers, in response to the increase in enemy threats such as the use of electronic gear to detonate improvised explosive devices. The new EW field will be open to soldiers of all ranks. Some 1,600 soldiers will staff the first units. The field may expand by another 2,300 soldiers. Trainers are now conducting a series of pilot courses, with plans to begin regular instruction for warrants and enlisteds by spring. Officer courses will begin in late June. The EW career management identifiers will be Functional Area 29 for officers, Military Occupational Specialty 290A for warrant officers, and MOS 29E for enlisteds.