F/A-18 Radar Upgrade

Abstract

F/A-18 Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) Upgrade: The F/A-18 RADAR Upgrade, Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) development program, which began in FY 1999, is the last of three pre-planned upgrades to the F/A-18 Type/Model/Series RADAR. The AESA system corrects operational test deficiencies noted in the AN/APG-73. It provides for multi-target tracking, Synthetic Aperture RADAR (SAR) imagery, SAR Target Location Error (TLE), and improved spotlight map resolution. In addition, it provides for greater lethality than previous F/A-18 RADARs by allowing for full tactical support of existing and planned air-to-air (A/A) and air-to-ground (A/G) weapons and it significantly increases A/A and A/G detection and tracking ranges. The AESA system provides greater survivability through self-protection and standoff jamming capabilities, while its greater range allows for reduced detection by enemy RADAR. This budget continues spiral capability development of AESA by increased efforts to address Phase II Operational Requirements Document requirements such as Counter-Electronic Attack against multiple Radio Frequency Emitters (AESA Multi-Jammer Electronic Protection (EP) and Monopulse Solution Development), Precision TLE improvement, improved RADAR targeting capability within visual range (Aircraft Combat Maneuvering Mode Development), and upgraded test and evaluation equipment (AESA Instrumentation upgrade). Higher Order Language Software development and integration is also required for expanded A/A and A/G capabilities while in a tactical A/A and A/G threat Electronic Attack environment.

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Document Details

Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2013
Source ID
2065_0204136N_7_1319_PB_2013

Tags

Readers

  • Naval Mine Countermeasure Systems Development.
  • Radar Systems Engineering.

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics

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