The acquisition of at least nine of these radar units was decided by the Dutch military in 2019, marking a substantial investment in the country’s defence capabilities. Six of these units are earmarked for Fire Support Command, while the remaining three will enhance the capabilities of the Ground-Based Air Defence Command. All units are expected to achieve operational readiness by the end of next year, with the first station slated for delivery to the artillery by mid-year.
Designed for versatility, the GM200MM/C can function as both artillery radars, under the fire support command, and as an integral part of air defence systems. Boasting a range of up to 300 kilometers, these radars are capable of detecting various aerial threats from significant distances. They can be deployed either in a stationary position or mounted on vehicles, such as the Scania Gryphus trucks in the Netherlands, offering both stability and mobility to meet the demands of modern warfare.
The integration of these radars with existing air defence and artillery systems is currently underway. This project not only represents a leap forward in the Netherlands’ defence infrastructure but also serves as a platform for international cooperation and interoperability with allies. Already, three countries have joined the cooperation program, and four NATO members—Netherlands, Denmark, Lithuania, and Norway—have placed orders for this radar type.
Thales has highlighted the GM 200MM/C’s growing popularity in Europe, reflected in the tripling of its production of radar stations for land and maritime applications. This surge in interest and production capacity underscores the strategic importance of advanced radar systems in bolstering national and collective defence capabilities in the face of evolving threats.
