USMC G/ATOR system completes developmental testing
The US Marine Corps’ (USMC’s) Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) Block 1 completed live developmental testing at Wallops Island in June, Naval Sea Systems Command announced on 3 August.
The lightweight, mobile and rapidly deployable G/ATOR AN/TPS-80 underwent three months of evaluation to ensure it met the G/ATOR Block 1 (GB1) capability requirements, including the ability to detect UAS, cruise missiles and air breathing targets over short- and medium-ranges.
The system will complement the AN/TPS-59(V) 3 long range radar, providing commanders with the ability to increase coverage of the assigned air defence sectors that adjoin maritime air defence and contiguous surveillance areas, and reduce vulnerability gaps in the landward sector for naval forces operating in littoral regions.
The testing of G/ATOR GB1 at Wallops Island focused on radar performance and combat identification. Live and simulated flights were conducted and interoperability with the composite tracking network and cooperative engagement capability systems in an operationally realistic littoral environment were tested.
Follow-on testing is expected to take place in late 2018 at USMC Air Stations Cherry Point and Yuma.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine]()
NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
-
![SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display]()
SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display
The array of platforms on display at SAHA 2026 showcased the diversity of equipment now provided by the Turkish defence industry.
-
![SAHA 2026: Is the Turkish Army’s Altay MBT finally ready?]()
SAHA 2026: Is the Turkish Army’s Altay MBT finally ready?
At SAHA 2026, the Altay was proudly on display. But has the platform finally overcome the problems that have left it repeatedly late?
-
![Finding the balance between armour and air defence as UAVs proliferate]()
Finding the balance between armour and air defence as UAVs proliferate
While the growing drone threat has sharpened the focus on air defence solutions, Dr Peter Magill looks at why protected mobility remains crucial.
-
![Saab Barracuda update prioritises drone protection on modern battlefield]()
Saab Barracuda update prioritises drone protection on modern battlefield
Barracuda multispectral camouflage systems have been developed over decades and are designed to conceal a range of infrared and ultraviolet signals as well as reducing detection by radar.
