Saxony-Class receives new radar equipment

The three Class 124 frigates will receive new radar equipment for air surveillance over the next few years. According to the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), four TRS-4D/LR ROT systems will be procured. They will replace the SMART-L from the Dutch manufacturer Signaal, now Thales Naval Nederland, currently on board. The new radar systems are being developed and produced by the Taufkirchen-based company Hensoldt. It is planned to install the new equipment on the three frigates from 2025, with a further system to be installed as early as 2023 as a test, reference and training system at the naval technology school in Parow. This will allow the system to be put through its paces and any necessary adjustments to be made before it is integrated on board. The order value of around 220 million euros also includes training services and the establishment of supply readiness.

After the planned completion of the work in 2028, the Saxony-class will have one of the world's most powerful and modern radars. Improved reconnaissance and target tracking capabilities will then also enable the tracking of ballistic missiles. By using Aesa technology (Active Electronically Scanning Array), the devices can also detect and reliably track particularly small and manoeuvrable objects at a distance of more than 400 kilometres in the air and up to 2000 kilometres in earth orbit.

Text: mb; Illustration: Hensoldt/Brian Burnell