// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
AESA
AESA stands for Active Electronically Scanned Array, a advanced type of radar that uses many small, fixed transmitting and receiving elements to electronically steer its radar beam. This allows it to quickly track multiple targets, perform several tasks at once, and operate with greater stealth and reliability than older radar systems.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar is a cutting-edge radio frequency sensor technology employing numerous solid-state transmit/receive modules (TRMs) to electronically direct radar beams without mechanical movement, enabling rapid multi-target tracking, simultaneous air-to-air and air-to-ground modes, enhanced electronic warfare capabilities, and low probability of intercept (LPI) in modern fighter aircraft and naval platforms.
BACKGROUND
An active electronically scanned array (AESA) is a type of phased array antenna, which is a computer-controlled antenna array in which the beam of radio waves can be electronically steered to point in different directions without moving the antenna. In the AESA, each antenna element is connected to a small solid-state transmit/receive module (TRM) under the control of a computer, which performs the functions of a transmitter and/or receiver for the antenna. This contrasts with a passive electronically scanned array (PESA), in which all the antenna elements are connected to a single transmitter and/or receiver through phase shifters under the control of the computer. AESA's main use is in radar and these are known as active phased-array radar (APAR).
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Active Phased Array
- Electronically Scanned Array
- Solid-State Radar
- Digital Radar
USAGE NOTE
AESA radars are a critical enabler for fifth-generation fighter aircraft capabilities, providing superior situational awareness and multi-role functionality.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to AESA.
A leading developer of advanced AESA radar systems for air, land, and sea platforms, including the AN/APG-79 for F/A-18s, SPY-6 for naval defense, and radars for Patriot missile systems.
A major innovator in AESA radar technology, producing systems like the AN/APG-81 for the F-35 Lightning II, AN/APG-83 SABR for F-16 upgrades, and AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR for ground forces.
Develops and integrates AESA radar technology for a wide range of applications, including advanced fighter aircraft, missile defense systems, and ground-based radars like the AN/TPQ-53.
A significant contributor to AESA radar development, particularly for European defense platforms such as the Captor-E radar for the Eurofighter Typhoon and various naval and ground-based AESA solutions.
A Swedish defense and security company known for its advanced AESA radar systems, including those integrated into the Gripen fighter jet (PS-05/A with AESA upgrade), the GlobalEye AEW&C system, and Giraffe land-based radars.
An Italian global high-tech company active in aerospace, defense, and security, developing AESA radars for air (e.g., Captor-E for Eurofighter Typhoon), sea (e.g., KRONOS family), and land applications.
A French multinational company designing and building electrical systems and providing services for the aerospace, defense, transportation, and security markets. Thales is a key developer of AESA radars for naval (e.g., Sea Fire 500), ground, and airborne platforms.
ELTA Systems, a subsidiary of IAI, is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of advanced AESA radar systems for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR), including AEW&C systems and various tactical radars.