// 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

MURAD is a solid-state active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system family developed by Turkish state-owned Aselsan. The radar is designed to enhance air combat capabilities and features advanced multi-mode functionality for a variety of operational requirements. It employs cutting-edge technology to ensure high reliability and performance across different environments. There are currently two Murad radars under development; Murad 110-A and Murad 600-A.

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SYNONYMS & 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.

  • Raytheon Technologies (RTX)

    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.

  • Northrop Grumman

    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.

  • Lockheed Martin

    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.

  • BAE Systems

    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.

  • Saab

    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.

  • Leonardo

    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.

  • Thales

    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.

  • Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) / ELTA Systems

    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.

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