The US Army has awarded a roughly $24-million contract modification to Saab’s US subsidiary, Saab Inc., for the delivery of 10 Giraffe 1X radars to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Designed to detect drones, missiles, and low-flying aircraft, the compact radar supports US efforts to strengthen partner air defense capabilities in the Baltic states on NATO’s eastern flank.
The modification raises the total contract value to around $70 million. Work will be performed in East Syracuse, New York, with completion expected by February 28, 2027.
Latvia already operates Giraffe 1X, and Lithuania has integrated the system into its MSHORAD network, while Estonia is set to receive its first units under the latest US Army deal.
Baltic Air Defense
Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, Baltic states have moved to close short-range air defense gaps, including through the deployment of sensor systems such as Saab’s Giraffe 1X.
The Giraffe 1X is a 3D active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar that rapidly scans, tracks multiple targets simultaneously, and filters out non-threatening objects.
Weighing less than 150 kilograms (330 pounds), the radar is built for rapid deployment and integration with small units. It can be mounted on a light vehicle, mast, or tripod.
Operating in the X-band, it provides high-resolution, 360-degree surveillance with a detection range of up to approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles).
