VADR Radar System Adds C-Band Range

The U.S. Air Force Advanced Radar Threat System Variant3 (ARTS-V3) system is extending its spectral reach into C-band with the latest advances from Lockheed Martin. The variable-aperture digital radar (VADR, see figure) now includes C-band technology along with its existing X-band frequency coverage for increased long-range adversarial threat coverage. The upgraded radar system adds to the detection capabilities of terrestrial surface-to-air-missile (SAM) radar defense systems.

The ARTS-V3 VADR system incorporates dual polarization capabilities and shares some electronic design with the Sentinel A4 radar system developed by Lockheed Martin. In addition to use by the U.S. Air Force, the C-band line-replaceable units (LRUs) can be employed by the U.S. Army and other military services within environments where commercial S-band electromagnetic (EM) interference is a concern.

By incorporating software-defined-radio (SDR) technology, the ARTS-V3 VADR system can process multiple threats within the X- and C-band frequency ranges rather than being limited to a single threat signal source, quickly adapting to changing threat environments. The system provides advanced early warning of threats and helps develop counter-target responses.