Raytheon’s 3DELRR radar selected by US Air Force
Raytheon will develop a new expeditionary radar for the US Air Force (USAF) that will detect, identify and track drones, missiles and aircraft under a new contract announced on 6 October. Raytheon beat out competition from Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman for the award.
The contract also calls for Raytheon to procure three additional radar systems for a total of six radar systems and product support, and will be designed for exportability, enabling US forces, allies and security partners to benefit from the system. The total contract, including all options, is currently estimated at $71.8 million.
The Three Dimensional Expeditionary Long Range Radar (3DELRR) is a gallium nitride (GaN)-based radar that operates in the C-band of the radio frequency spectrum. By using GaN, Raytheon was able to affordably increase the radar’s range, sensitivity and search capabilities. C-band also offers the military increased flexibility due to that portion of the spectrum being relatively uncongested.
The 3DELRR is being developed to replace older-style radar systems which are no longer able to keep pace with current and emerging threats.
David Gulla, vice president, global integrated sensors. Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems, said: ‘By choosing Raytheon’s 3DELRR solution, the air force is purchasing an affordable, exportable radar. Raytheon’s 3DELRR design is interoperable with coalition systems and capable of meeting the requirements of many international customers.’
Andrew Hajek, 3DELRR program director, Raytheon, added: ‘As the US and other countries look to replace aging battlefield radars with low-cost yet cutting edge and highly capable systems, Raytheon’s 3DELRR can meet that growing demand.’
More from Land Warfare
-
![India’s high-altitude logistics drone push drives demand as BonV Aero launches Air Orca]()
India’s high-altitude logistics drone push drives demand as BonV Aero launches Air Orca
The Indian Army's major drone procurement programme has drawn attention from BonV Aero which has launched its heavy-lift platform for extreme terrain missions.
-
![SpearUAV to deliver 1,000 loitering munitions to extend armoured vehicle capability]()
SpearUAV to deliver 1,000 loitering munitions to extend armoured vehicle capability
The company's Multi Canister Launcher can deploy its Viper system from multiple military platforms, boosting operational flexibility.
-
![April land forces roundup: Munitions and long-range fires drive procurement momentum]()
April land forces roundup: Munitions and long-range fires drive procurement momentum
The demand for long-range fires continues alongside the drive to increase artillery shell manufacture and the procurement of new artillery weapons.
-
![Laser weapon solutions are emerging as Europe confronts air defence cost imbalance]()
Laser weapon solutions are emerging as Europe confronts air defence cost imbalance
Europe’s air defence debate is increasingly shaped by the blunt economics of the field. While high-value interceptor missiles can effectively shoot down cheap drones, doing so at scale presents cost challenges.
-
![Is the RCH 155 self-propelled wheeled howitzer for the British Army finally on the way?]()
Is the RCH 155 self-propelled wheeled howitzer for the British Army finally on the way?
The Remote-Controlled Howitzer 155mm self-propelled gun is making strong progress, with contracts being placed and production capacity being boosted for the base Boxer vehicle.
-
![ARX Robotics expands in UK following British Army backing for uncrewed platforms]()
ARX Robotics expands in UK following British Army backing for uncrewed platforms
Following an order from the British Army, ARX Robotics has begun manufacturing autonomous ground platforms in the UK. Christopher Foss examines the company's growing range of systems.
