Raytheon upgrades KAI FA-50 combat aircraft with PhantomStrike radar
The FA-50 light attack aircraft is based on the T-50 trainer. (Photo: KAI)
Raytheon is to integrate its PhantomStrike fire control radar on the KAI FA-50 light attack aircraft.
Raytheon Technologies will outfit the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) FA-50 light combat aircraft with its new PhantomStrike radar.
The AESA radar is a fully air-cooled fire-control radar designed to provide long-range threat detection, tracking and targeting.
Thee US government has approved the product to be exported as a Direct Commercial Sale product to KAI.
PhantomStike can be integrated into light attack aircraft, helicopters, UAVs and ground-based towers as well.
‘Outfitting the FA-50 with the PhantomStrike radar upgrades the capability of a critical aircraft, providing unparalleled performance in a compact, affordable package,’ said Annabel Flores, president of Global Spectrum Dominance at Raytheon Technologies.
‘PhantomStrike makes it possible for KAI to offer high-performance fire control radar capabilities that can integrate with US and international weapon systems, so FA-50 customers maintain air dominance,’ she added.
Production of the radars will take place in Mississippi, Arizona and Scotland with support from Raytheon UK.
Initial deliveries are expected in 2025.
The FA-50 aircraft is based on the T-50 trainer's performance and an armament storing capability, but it has been further developed and upgraded with a tactical data link, precision-guided munitions, and a self-protection subsystem.
The aircraft has been deployed and operated in the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) since 2013.
More from Air Warfare
-
![NSPA outlines next steps for NATO’s Next-Generation Rotorcraft Capability effort]()
NSPA outlines next steps for NATO’s Next-Generation Rotorcraft Capability effort
The NATO agency gave further updates on the next stages of its rotorcraft programme and timelines for the next three years, with the initiative aimed at replacing ageing medium-lift helicopters in various NATO countries.
-
![UK’s New Medium Helicopter deal finalisation on horizon, alludes Leonardo CEO]()
UK’s New Medium Helicopter deal finalisation on horizon, alludes Leonardo CEO
A potential announcement within days could end speculation around the UK Ministry of Defence’s procurement direction for the NMH programme.
-
![UK Royal Navy notes hybrid air wing progress with eyes on Peregrine drone development]()
UK Royal Navy notes hybrid air wing progress with eyes on Peregrine drone development
The Royal Navy’s Maritime Aviation Transformation (MATX) initiative aims to modernise aviation capabilities to use uncrewed systems where possible, supporting its goal of a hybrid air wing by 2040.
-
![Middle East UAV market underscored by $17bn in unsigned deals]()
Middle East UAV market underscored by $17bn in unsigned deals
While several UAV programmes remain unawarded in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is forecast to be the biggest spender with its potential MQ-9B and Gambit deals overshadowing others in the region.
-
![February Drone Digest: US manufacturers face the Gauntlet and find success abroad]()
February Drone Digest: US manufacturers face the Gauntlet and find success abroad
The US launched the Gauntlet test in February as part of its accelerated attack drone procurement effort while also exploring various naval capabilities that could lead to procurements down the line. Shield AI’s V-Bat, meanwhile, has been stirring up global interest.
-
![Leonardo UK “optimistic” on further Proteus funding, confirms international interest]()
Leonardo UK “optimistic” on further Proteus funding, confirms international interest
The Proteus demonstrator is being pitched as a key platform showcasing the UK’s capabilities to build autonomous systems, with Leonardo in ongoing discussions about the future of the programme with the Royal Navy and UK Ministry of Defence.
