3D Multi-Mission Naval Surveillance Sensor
Hensoldt launched the newly-developed QUADOME 3D radar system for naval surveillance and target acquisition at DSEI last week.
Featuring the latest technology, the multi-mission QUADOME provides rapid response and high precision, at an excellent price-performance ratio. It modernises one of the company’s key radar product lines and further enhances the group’s extensive radar portfolio. “QUADOME builds on the reputation and track record of Hensoldt’s naval tactical radar family, which has been very successful and has sold over 100 units over a 25-year timespan,” says Peter Schlote, Head of the Radar and Naval Solutions Division.
This innovative dual-mode, multi-mission surveillance radar will provide naval forces and maritime security authorities with unprecedented situational awareness and enable extremely short reaction times. Fast detection and tracking of small, slow and fast targets offers a reliable and stable air picture, with fast track initiation to support longer effector keep-out range. The new-generation radar features the latest gallium nitride (GaN)-based active electronically steered antenna (AESA) technology, and is software-defined, thus being a future-proof solution with an extended operational lifetime.
QUADOME features two main operational modes to simplify operator interaction and to reduce operator workload. Surveillance mode is used for general surface and air surveillance, while the self-defence mode is employed for high-threat situations and target engagement, with helicopter support continuously available in either mode.
The system is aimed at the global market for tactical naval radar systems, mainly targeting offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), corvettes, light frigates and support vessels. Because of its compact size, relatively low mass and excellent price-performance ratio, QUADOME brings 3D air surveillance and air defence capabilities to vessels that that may otherwise only feature a 2D target detection capability.
Designed for the modern operational needs of the naval domain, QUADOME offers robust capabilities for the detection and tracking of small surface targets and accurate 3D tracking of small, low-flying, fast-moving air targets, ensuring effective threat evaluation, weapon assignment and a longer effector ‘keep-out’ range due to fast-track initiation. “QUADOME operates in C-Band for operationally advantageous reasons, offering the best compromise for small- and medium-sized vessels demanding a high-performance,” explained Ryszard Bil, Head of Portfolio Development and Technical Director for Hensoldt’s Radar and Naval Solutions Division.
Operators will benefit from lower life-cycle costs, reduced user-effort due to lower workloads, training and skills and comprehensive modern support concepts. The lifespan of the product is also significantly extended with new-generation, future-proof technology that offers the ability to add new features as new threats emerge, using the software-defined architecture. “QUADOME is the culmination of Hensoldt’s significant international footprint and global spectrum of expertise,” observed Russell Gould, Head of International Business Development. With the unique advantage of over 50 years’ radar innovation in Germany, the UK and South Africa, Hensoldt is a truly global leader in the radar market.
