Valen is a wideband array that combines radar, electronic warfare and communications functions in a single design. It is intended for crewed and uncrewed platforms operating from air to space.
The development of Valen was fully funded by Northrop Grumman and builds on generations of combat-proven AESA technology. According to the company, the system is lighter, smaller and more affordable than previous solutions.
Northrop Grumman states that Valen is digitally designed and manufactured using 3D printing, reducing production timelines. The company says this approach supports faster delivery while maintaining performance standards.
The radar’s performance is supported by advanced packaging techniques developed at Northrop Grumman’s Microelectronics Center. These techniques combine multiple semiconductor components into a micro-sized package, enabling faster operation, improved cooling and lower power consumption within a smaller footprint.
Valen is built using the latest open-architecture standards for hardware and software. The company says this allows the integration of advanced sensor capabilities from across its portfolio and supports rapid system updates.
As an AESA system, Valen uses digitally controlled antennas and sensors to provide rapid detection, tracking and imaging in any direction without mechanical movement. Northrop Grumman states that this enables faster target detection and tracking across operational environments.
Krys Moen, vice president of advanced mission capabilities at Northrop Grumman, said, “Our warfighters require advanced situational awareness no matter what platform they’re operating.” He added, “Valen’s design embodies the future of warfare—integrating cutting-edge technology, adaptability and affordability to enable quick decision making and effective mission execution. Valen’s compact, lightweight design cuts production time, delivering a highly capable product to the field faster.”
The radar has been tested aboard a Northrop Grumman-owned Bombardier CRJ-700 aircraft. The company said the system will be offered to the U.S. armed forces and allied nations as part of its expanding advanced sensing portfolio.
