According to a press release by SAAB, the U.S. Navy’s Shipboard Air Traffic Radar program in Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) has awarded an LRIP option for three of Saab’s AN/SPN-50(V)1 radar systems. The order value for the LRIP phase two contract is USD 37.1 million, with the first delivery scheduled for 2022. Radar manufacturing, delivery, test, and integration will take place at Saab’s Syracuse, New York facilities.
The AN/SPN-50(V)1 radar system, which is one of the U.S. versions of Saab’s Sea Giraffe Agile Multi Beam radar, will function as the primary air traffic control surveillance radar for manned and unmanned aviation aboard the Navy’s nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and amphibious large decks.
“By leveraging Saab’s radar technology already in operational service with the U.S. Navy, the Naval Air Traffic Management Systems Program Office and Saab is addressing shipboard air traffic control capability to ensure readiness and cost-efficiency,” said Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab in the U.S.
Delivery of the Navy’s advanced air traffic control and landing capability is overseen by the Naval Air Traffic Management Systems Program Office. In cooperation with Saab, they are responsible for the radar system’s acquisition, deployment, and through life sustainment while in service within the U.S. Navy fleet.