Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to develop and maintain the Armed Forces’ artillery and weapon locating capability. The order includes Saab’s Giraffe 4A multi-function radar and life extension of the artillery locating system Arthur. Deliveries will begin in 2019.

The Giraffe 4A is a ground-based, multi-function radar based on a digital, multi-channel, active electronically scanned array (AESA) using GaN in the T/R modules. The radar has a range of capabilities: one system can be used for air surveillance and air defence, as well as warning and artillery locating tasks.

Delivery of the Giraffe 4A and the life extension of Arthur will enhance the Swedish armed forces’ long-range surveillance, adding capabilities to handle existing and future threats.

Arthur and the Giraffe radar family are produced at Saab’s Gothenburg facility, a world-leading centre for microwave and sensor technology. Several of the most advanced radar and sensor systems on the market are produced there. Saab’s radar and electronic warfare platforms include the airborne surveillance solution GlobalEye, sensor systems for the Gripen fighter and the self-protection system family, Arexis.

“Our ground-based radar Giraffe 4A strengthens our customers’ capability to detect incoming threats, including tactical ballistic missiles. Tensions around us are increasing and the system gives our customers a world-class, multi-function capability that helps to protect their interests.” — Anders Carp, head of Saab’s surveillance business.