Raytheon has started initial production of the SharpSight multi-domain surveillance radar.
The system is designed to deliver high-altitude, real-time imaging and wide-area tracking for land and maritime surveillance in all weather and lighting conditions.
It integrates technologies from Raytheon’s legacy systems, the Highly Integrated Synthetic Aperture Radar, and the SeaVue Multi-Role Radar.
It features an open-architecture design that allows for rapid integration on both manned and unmanned platforms, as well as cost-effective upgrades.
SharpSight supports missions including border and coastal monitoring, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, and long-range surveillance.
Equipped with an automatic identification system, the radar can detect, track, and classify over 1,000 targets at once, improving data accuracy during operations.
SharpSight has a range of 320 nautical miles and a total weight of 129 kilograms (284 pounds).
It includes several antenna configurations of varying sizes and shapes, allowing adaptation to different platforms and mission requirements.
“This radar represents the next step in Raytheon’s long legacy of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance innovation,” said Daniel Theisen, president of Advanced Products and Solutions at Raytheon.
Moreover, the system is being developed in line with current US export policy, making it available to international partners and allies.
Global Radar Exports
While advancing new systems for the US market, Raytheon is also expanding its radar portfolio abroad through partnerships and defense agreements.
In early October, Germany selected the US-based company’s SPY-6(V)1 radar for integration into eight upcoming F127-class air defense frigates.
The proposed foreign military sales package includes technical support and integration services to adapt the system to the frigate’s design.
If finalized, Germany would become the first non-US operator of the SPY-6 radar.
In September, Raytheon signed an agreement with Poland’s state-owned Military Electronic Works (WZE) to produce modules for the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor radar.
The partnership makes WZE the first international supplier contributing to the radar system, which will support the US Army’s air and missile defense network.
