Combat ready radar

The

has awarded

a $14.9 million contract to provide post-production support for its AN/TPS-59(V)3 mobile long-range air defence radars.

Under the contract Lockheed Martin will provide new row electronics, including transmitters, receivers and power supplies. The work is expected to be completed by January 2007.

According to Lockheed Martin, the AN/TPS-59(V)3 is the only ground-based 360-degree coverage mobile radar in the world certified to detect tactical ballistic missiles.

It can precisely predict missile launch and impact points, and cue defensive weapons against incoming threats. The radar can detect multiple targets, and detect and track small air-breathing threats such as aircraft and cruise missiles. It is designed to operate with several weapons systems, including HAWK and Patriot.

The solid state AN/TPS-59(V)3 can be integrated with other sensors for improved launch and impact point prediction, extended range capabilities, co-operative engagement and joint tactical information distribution.

The radar's 740-kilometer (400 nautical mile) range is said to exceed the range of most tactical ballistic missiles in the world today, and its mobility allows it to be forward-based to further extend the range of the system.