Radar Development

Radar Development is a critical initiative under the Army's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation efforts. It focuses on advancing radar technologies to enhance air and missile defense capabilities. The program supports the Sentinel Radar system, a vital component of the Army Integrated Air and Missile Defense (AIAMD) architecture. The primary goal is to improve air surveillance in forward areas, integrating with common fires mission command systems to address performance gaps and enhance survivability against advanced threats. This involves developing hardware and software upgrades for the Sentinel A4, which will replace the current radar technology with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) to extend range and improve target recognition accuracy.

The Sentinel program aims to provide comprehensive 360-degree surveillance capabilities for detecting and tracking various aerial threats, including unmanned aircraft systems and cruise missiles. It plays a dual role in air defense and force protection against rocket, artillery, and mortar threats. The system's enhancements include faster target recognition, improved track accuracy, and better operation in cluttered environments. Additionally, it supports multiple operational requirements such as Mobile Short Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) and Guam Defense Systems by providing fire control quality tracks.

The Army Long Range Persistent Surveillance (ALPS) project is a new addition within the Radar Development program, focusing on passive air surveillance sensor systems. ALPS is designed to provide long-range surveillance against conventional aircraft and emerging threats like unmanned systems. It connects with multiple command systems to support tactical to strategic operations. The project involves modernizing existing systems to meet evolving threats and includes design development and hardware fabrication efforts.

These initiatives aim to advance radar technology for enhanced situational awareness and defense capabilities across various operational theaters. By integrating advanced sensors and improving system survivability, the Radar Development program seeks to maintain technological superiority in air and missile defense while addressing emerging threats from near-peer adversaries.