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
-
China’s third aircraft carrier commences sea trials
Fujian, China’s latest aircraft carrier, has embarked on its inaugural sea trials following delays to its construction but featuring technological advancements that have marked a leap in the maritime capabilities of the People’s Liberation Army Navy.
-
Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray completes testing
Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation was selected in 2021 to build and test and Manta Ray unmanned underwater vehicle (UUVs). A second platform has been under development by PacMar Technologies.
-
Steel to be cut for first Polar Security Cutter this year, claims US Coast Guard commandant
The delivery of the first PSC was initially scheduled for 2024, but the design phase of the programme was delayed multiple times.
-
US Navy takes delivery of New Jersey SSN
The USN’s Virginia-class SSNs are replacing the old Los Angeles-class SSNs. The Virginia-class SSNs are fitted with the latest sensors and weapons and around 48 submarines are planned, with a total of 38 currently ordered.
-
VARD and Fincantieri launch Resilience ship family to target Norway’s standardised vessel needs
VARD and Fincantieri’s announcement to launch the VARD Resilience series came only weeks after Norway’s new long-term 2025–36 defence plan.