More AN/SPN-50(V) for the US Navy

The US Navy has ordered three more AN/SPN-50(V) radar systems from the manufacturer Saab. This is an option from the contract concluded in October last year, under which two devices have already been ordered. The price is quoted at just under 32 million dollars. The systems are to be delivered by the end of 2022.
The new sensors are to be used to optimise the sensors currently installed on the aircraft carriers of the Nimitz-class and the AN/SPN-43C amphibious assault ships. These 2D radars are used for air traffic control around the ships and detect aircraft at a distance of up to 50 nautical miles and an altitude of up to 30,000 feet. US Navy ships have been equipped with the AN/SPN-43C since the mid-1960s. Although updates have been introduced repeatedly during its service life, the system as a whole no longer meets today's requirements. The new digital radar from Saab achieves greater accuracy even under adverse conditions. The first new devices from the previous order are to be installed this year. Extensive tests will be carried out on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower will be carried out. At the same time, the future amphibious assault ship Bougainville the America-class are already equipped with the radar. A total of 25 AN/SPN-50(V) are to be procured for US Navy ships by 2028.

Text: mb; Photo: US Navy