Saab is showcasing the lightweight, compact Giraffe 1X radar antenna as part of a Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) solution at Eurosatory 2016 for the first time.
Situational awareness and the development of a clear, common air picture are critical components of an effective air defence strategy in a threat environment characterised by rockets, mortars, unmanned aerial systems, missiles or asymmetric attacks from terrorist groups. A flexible, agile radar, capable of being deployed close to the combat area, provides just the sort of coverage required to generate such an air picture.
The Giraffe 1X, which can be operated by a single solodier, weighs less than 200 kg and is designed for easy integration. The complete radar can be transported on a pickup truck-sized vehicle, a helicopter or towed on a trailer. Its flexibility and compactness mean Giraffe 1X can be easily shifted, for example from a vehicle to the roof of a building, making it ideally suited to the rapidly changing needs of mobile forces. Saab’s unique and proven enhanced low, slow and small (ELSS) capability also provides a dedicated counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAS) feature.
The radar is on show as part of Saab’s VSHORAD solution, including the RBS 70 NG VSHORAD. The new RBS 70 NG VSHORAD from Saab, with 24/7 all-target capability has been developed for the most demanding combat situations. Its integrated sighting solution, enhanced operator aids, unbeatable range and unjammable laser guidance combine to produce a system with world-leading capabilities.
“We have a world-class range of surface radars and as a truly European supplier it is great to be able to showcase one of the new radar family members, Giraffe 1X, at Eurosatory”, says Anders Linder, head of Saab’s business unit Surface Radar Solutions.