Saab begins Giraffe 4A radar production

Saab has commenced production of the first Giraffe 4A radar following completion of a series of operationally-focussed, deployed field tests of the system to demonstrate its weapons location, air defence and air surveillance functions.

The validation tests, performed at multiple locations throughout August, all met or exceeded the expected performance, with the radar demonstrating advanced functionality against small targets and jamming.

The system is now in production at the company’s in Gothenburg, Sweden facility, for an unnamed customer, and Saab is on track to deliver the radar in 2016.

Saab extended its range of surface radar systems with the addition of the Giraffe 4A in May 2014, with an option now available to meet the spectrum of air surveillance and air defence application requirements, on land and at sea.

Anders Linder, head of surface radar solutions, Saab, said: ‘Saab can now cater for all ground and naval defence radar needs; from VSHORAD to long-range air surveillance and weapons location, with multi-functional capability.

‘Distinctive characteristics for our radars include the use of a stacked beam (digital beam forming), a high update rate, plus superb performance in clutter and jamming resistance.’

Multi-function capabilities include automatic air and surface surveillance and ‘track-on-jam’; classification of targets including hovering and moving helicopters; high accuracy indication to weapon systems for anti-air and anti-surface engagements; 360 degree incoming mortar/rocket fire alert and hostile weapons location; and target designation for long-range surface-to-air missiles.

Related Equipment in Defence Insight

Giraffe AMB