Searchmaster radar in first flight
Thales' Searchmaster radar has completed its first flight, marking the start of a six month flight test campaign, the company announced on 4 February.
Thales is developing Searchmaster for France’s ATL2 maritime patrol aircraft upgrade programme. It will also be available for international export customers.
The airborne surveillance radar uses an active electronically scanned array antenna to provide multirole capabilities and high levels of naval or land threat detection performance. It is designed for five mission types: anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, maritime patrol, air-to-ground missions and tactical air support.
Flight testing will involve an integrated team, with personnel from Thales, the French defence procurement agency (DGA) flight test centre and the French Navy (CEPA or operational fly test and evaluation centre). During the campaign, the radar will be tested in real-life operating environments, including air-to-surface, air-to-ground and air-to-air operations.
A Thales spokesperson said that at least 15 radars are being prepared for the ATL2 programme. The first production radars will be delivered in the first half of 2017.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy seeks suppliers to upgrade the MK 41 VLS]()
US Navy seeks suppliers to upgrade the MK 41 VLS
The US Navy has been preparing to award a contract for the refurbishment of MK 41 VLS on board USN vessels and other military type ships.
-
![Philippine Navy looks to old and new vessels to beef up its fleet]()
Philippine Navy looks to old and new vessels to beef up its fleet
The Philippines has turned to regional neighbours Japan and South Korea in a effort to boost its naval fleet with new and ex-Japanese ships. The bonds between the countries is an acknowledgment of the rising power of China and the continued manoeuvres of the Asian giant throughout the region.
-
![US Navy prepares the next phase of the Arleigh Burke-class modernisation]()
US Navy prepares the next phase of the Arleigh Burke-class modernisation
The NAVSEA is carrying out market research and will conduct industry days in August to identify potential providers for the DDG MOD 2.0 stage.
-
![Pentagon requests industry support to address issues with low-cost undersea effectors]()
Pentagon requests industry support to address issues with low-cost undersea effectors
The US Pentagon Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) will award OTAs for small and medium affordable uncrewed underwater vehicles. Companies can submit their solution until 24 July.
