The update introduces an extended range mode and improvements to identification friend or foe capability, while also enhancing system interoperability. According to the press release, the upgrade enables improved threat categorisation and intelligence sharing through an open architecture command-and-control connection, and all currently fielded systems have now received the enhancement.
“G/ATOR’s extended range and improved identification systems provide U.S. and allied forces with a crucial tactical advantage,” said Bob Gough, vice president, maritime and land systems and sensors, Northrop Grumman. He added: “Our radar system is designed to perform in the most complex air defense environments – detecting, tracking and targeting threats in real time.”
The AN/TPS-80 is a mobile long-range AESA radar operating in the S-band and designed to provide precise fire control and real-time 360-degree tracking of airborne threats including cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, aircraft and uncrewed aerial systems. Northrop Grumman stated that thirty-nine systems have been delivered to date, and confirmed that the 40th delivery is expected later this year, with the system incorporating U.S.-made microelectronics for multifunction and multi-mission performance.
