The AN/APS-145 Advanced Airborne Surveillance Radar represents a pinnacle in airborne early warning systems developed by Lockheed Martin. Known for its reliability, cost-effectiveness, and unparalleled performance, the APS-145 has significantly enhanced the capabilities of the Northrop Grumman E-2C Hawkeye and is adaptable to other aircraft platforms such as the Lockheed Martin C-130 and P-3.
Development and History
The AN/APS-145 builds upon a legacy of successful airborne surveillance radars, succeeding the APS-120, APS-125, and APS-138 systems. These predecessors played a critical role in establishing the E-2C Hawkeye as the most dependable carrier-based aircraft globally, completing missions with exceptional reliability over two decades.
Design and Technology
The APS-145 is a high-power UHF Doppler radar featuring a rotating antenna within a circular radome mounted atop the aircraft. This configuration allows simultaneous detection and tracking of multiple threats across various environments, including sea, air, land, and critical land-sea interfaces. Its operational range exceeds that of its predecessor, the APS-138, by an impressive 40%, making it the most extensive coverage airborne surveillance radar available.
Features and Capabilities
- Sophisticated Signal Processing: Utilizes adaptive signal processing for superior target detection and tracking in complex environments, including dense electromagnetic interference and jamming scenarios.
- Automation: Incorporates automatic performance optimization, adapting dynamically to changing operational conditions without operator intervention. This capability ensures optimal radar performance across diverse terrains and electromagnetic landscapes.
- Environmental Management System (EMS): Uniquely tailored for dynamic operational environments, the EMS allows the APS-145 to continuously optimize its performance parameters. This capability ensures peak radar efficiency across more than 5000 range and azimuth-related cells per scan, covering vast geographical areas with unmatched precision.
- Multi-Role Capability: From detecting small, low-speed targets for drug interdiction to tracking advanced high-speed military aircraft and missiles with low radar cross-sections, the APS-145 offers unparalleled versatility and effectiveness in airborne surveillance.
Applications
The APS-145 extends its surveillance capabilities across a broad spectrum of operational scenarios:
- Over-the-Horizon (OTH) Monitoring: Provides advanced warning and command-and-control information for distant threats, including low-flying aircraft and surface vessels.
- Environmental Adaptability: Tracks tactical targets seamlessly across diverse environments, including over land, sea, and complex land-sea interfaces. The radar’s automation and adaptive capabilities ensure optimal performance in any operational theater.
Future Prospects
As part of Lockheed Martin’s ongoing commitment to advancing airborne surveillance technology, the APS-145 continues to set the standard for cost-effective, high-performance radar systems. Its ability to integrate seamlessly with various aircraft platforms underscores its versatility and adaptability to future mission requirements.
Documents
APS-145(V) (E-2C)
EAN130A1_APS-145 V E-2C Archived JANReferences
- Lockheed Martin. “APS-145 Advanced Airborne Surveillance Radar.” Ocean, Radar & Sensor Systems, Syracuse, NY: Lockheed Martin, [Date Accessed].
- U.S. Department of Defense. “AN/APS-145 Radar System Overview.” Defense Technical Information Center, [Date Accessed].