The GM400α installation marks a critical upgrade in the nation’s radar infrastructure. With its extended range of 515 kilometers and five times more processing power than its predecessors, the GM400α is poised to enhance the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s (RNLAF) surveillance and detection capabilities. The advanced detection algorithms and upgraded radar processor facilitate superior tracking and identification of potential threats, including low-flying unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) and ballistic missiles.
Designed with mobility in mind, the GM400α can be deployed within 30 minutes, thanks to its foldable antenna. This feature ensures that the radar can be quickly repositioned as needed, providing flexible and responsive coverage. The integration of Doppler waveforms further enhances the radar’s ability to detect low-altitude objects, a crucial capability in today’s evolving threat landscape.
This temporary solution will remain in place until the new radar station in Herwijnen is fully operational. Herwijnen will be equipped with the long-range SMART-L Multi-Mission/Fixed (MM/F) system, also from Thales. The SMART-L MM/F is a land variant of the naval SMART-L 3D active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, renowned for its air and surface surveillance and target designation capabilities. Once operational, Herwijnen will oversee the southern regions of the Netherlands, complementing the radar station in Wier, which already utilizes the SMART-L MM/F system to cover the northern regions.
The SMART-L MM/F systems, which include ballistic missile defence (BMD) capabilities and a space object surveillance mode, represent a significant leap forward in the RNLAF’s defensive measures. These systems are designed to detect and counter modern threats such as low-flying drones and ballistic missiles.
