Radar demo for Spanish F-110

Lockheed Martin and Indra have conducted a demonstration test for the first phase of integration of an S-band, solid-state radar system developed for Spain's future F-110 frigate, Lockheed Martin announced on 17 May.

The test formed part of the technology development phase for the radar system development project, and it took place at Lockheed Martin's Moorestown, New Jersey facility.

During the test, Indra's Digital Transmit-Receive modules were successfully integrated into Lockheed Martin's Solid State phased array antenna. Engineers demonstrated the thermal, electrical and mechanical compatibility of the devices as representatives of the US Navy, Spanish Navy and Spanish Ministry of Defense watched.

Following the successful demonstration, both companies signed a contract that will see Lockheed Martin support Indra in the technology development phase. The project is expected to culminate in 2020 with an Engineering Development Model demonstration.

The new radar system will work alongside Lockheed Martin's Aegis air defence capability and introduce new-generation technologies to future Spanish frigates and international platforms. Indra is supplying the Digital Transmit-Receive modules with Solid State Gallium Nitride amplifiers.

Spain's F-110 frigate is its next-generation multi-mission surface vessel, due to enter into service in the next ten years. It will introduce the new radar system and an evolved Combat Management System. The navy already operates five Álvaro de Bazán class equipped with SPY-1 radar and the Aegis Combat System.

José Manuel Pérez Pujazón, executive vice president, Indra, said: 'The demonstration showed the operational compatibility between Lockheed Martin's array and Indra's digital modules, which together will form an integral part of the F-110 combat system.'

Mary Keifer, director of international aegis & surface combat systems, Lockheed Martin, said: 'Like the Aegis Combat System, our solid state radar system employs an open architecture design that more easily facilitates integration with other systems and components. This allows us to help support the US Navy and Missile Defense Agency's interests, while making our systems more compatible with the needs of our allied partners through collaboration with companies like Indra, which bring strong multinational capabilities and leading edge technologies to bear.'