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
-
![US military tests AI-powered CUAS turret against drone swarms]()
US military tests AI-powered CUAS turret against drone swarms
As the US continues to invest heavily in counter-drone systems, demand for low-cost, mobile and autonomous technologies is on the rise, with Edda designed to align with these emerging requirements.
-
![New E-3 and T-38 awards expose US Air Force legacy fleet dependence]()
New E-3 and T-38 awards expose US Air Force legacy fleet dependence
Contracts for E-3 aircrew training through August 2029 and supplies for the T-38 engine until December 2028 reflect issues with replacement and retirement plans across the USAF inventory.
-
![USMC advances MV-22B Osprey safety and reliability upgrades]()
USMC advances MV-22B Osprey safety and reliability upgrades
The US Marine Corps is testing a redesigned input quill assembly and plans to transition its MV-22B fleet to improved gearboxes by January 2033 as it prepares to operate the tiltrotor through 2055.
-
![Swedish Air Force faces up to the challenge of new aircraft and an uncrewed horizon]()
Swedish Air Force faces up to the challenge of new aircraft and an uncrewed horizon
Sweden is an outlier as a smaller nation with its own indigenous fighter aircraft and airborne early warning platform and is now looking at how local company Saab Aerospace can meet the plans for a collaborative combat aircraft.
