Raytheon Technologies, a global leader in aerospace and defense technologies, is set to revolutionize the capabilities of Korea Aerospace Industries’ FA-50 Light Combat Aircraft with the introduction of the groundbreaking PhantomStrike radar. This advanced fire-control radar, approved for export by the United States Government, promises enhanced threat detection, tracking, and targeting capabilities, all while being smaller, lighter, and more energy-efficient than its counterparts.
Image: Raytheon
The PhantomStrike radar is a game-changer, combining cutting-edge technology with unmatched versatility. Its compact size and reduced power requirements make it suitable for a wide range of platforms, including light-attack aircraft, rotary-wing aircraft, uncrewed aerial vehicles, and ground-based towers. This radar will enable the FA-50 to operate at peak efficiency while maintaining its agility and ease of maintenance.
Annabel Flores, President of Global Spectrum Dominance at Raytheon Technologies, emphasized the significance of outfitting the FA-50 with the PhantomStrike radar, stating, “This upgrade enhances the capabilities of a critical aircraft, providing unparalleled performance in a compact, affordable package. With the PhantomStrike radar, these jets remain fast, agile, and easy to maintain.”
PhantomStrike integrates two of Raytheon Technologies’ cutting-edge technologies — a gallium nitride-powered array and the compact high-reliability integrated receiver/exciter processor (CHIRP). By harnessing the power of these advanced components, PhantomStrike matches the capabilities of modern AESA radars, offering features such as digital beam forming and steering, multimode functionality, and interleaved ground and air targeting.
With the rapidly evolving threats on the battlefield, the introduction of PhantomStrike ensures that KAI can provide its FA-50 customers with high-performance fire-control radar capabilities that seamlessly integrate with U.S. and international weapon systems. By doing so, air dominance is maintained, bolstering the effectiveness and mission success of the FA-50 Light Combat Aircraft.
The production of the PhantomStrike radars will be conducted at facilities in Forest, Mississippi; Tucson, Arizona; and Scotland, with support from Raytheon UK. Initial deliveries of this cutting-edge radar system are expected to commence in 2025, marking a significant leap forward in military aircraft capabilities.
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