STEVE NICHOLS
Raytheon's (Stand K11, Hall 2B) APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) fire-control radar for the US Navy¹s Boeing F/A-18 Hornet will provide a "whole new capability," says Navy and Marine Corps program director Wes Motooka.
When introduced in 2004-5 the radar should help extend interest in the F/A-18 for some time, Motooka believes.
The AESA has a fixed antenna array that uses electronic scanning to "move" the beam around. This yields long range - target detection at ranges in excess of 185km (100nm) - and the ability to track 20 targets at a time. It will also generate high-resolution ground maps, permitting precision bombing in all weathers and long-range stand-off weapon delivery.
Designed
The system is designed for increased survivability, with fibre-optic cabling and low probability of enemy intercept. Equally important is affordability, says Motooka. "It's a line-replaceable unit with bit isolation and reduced spaces cost," he says. The array is also designed to degrade gracefully in the event of problems, leaving a residual capability.
The APG-79 builds upon the success of the APG-73 fire-control radar, which has been in production since 1994. More than 330 units have been produced and fitted as either retrofit or new.
Source: Flight Daily News