Northrop Grumman in collaboration with CEA Technologies recently demonstrated the CEAFAR, a multi-functional active electronically scanned array (AESA) S-Band radar best suited for use in naval vessels irrespective of size, that includes offshore patrol craft, destroyers and cruisers.
Northrop CEAFAR
The CEAFAR is a phased array radar which incorporates state-of-the-art digital beam-forming. Fully scalable in terms of size, power and frequency, the radar system is customizable depending on the technical and operational requirements. The CEAFAR’s unique design allows each sensor to be tuned and adjusted individually.
Using digital beam-forming (DBF) sensor technology, the CEAFAR can be fitted to existing as well as new vessels and can be configured for use in various threat scenarios as well as operating environments. The use of the radar helps extend the operational lifespan of the vessel as well as amplify the platforms’ mission capability.
The Vice President,Operation of the Naval and Marine Systems Division at Northrop Grumman, Paul Sullivan explained that the scalability offered by the lightweight radar system offers unparalleled help to the warfighter.
During the demonstration, carried out at the Undersea Systems facility located at Annapolis, CEA Technologies used a dual face unit to display the various capabilities and applications the radar system can provide to the armed forces. An Ethernet connection and power supply was required to control the two CEAFAR faces of the self-contained demonstration unit. Additionally Northrop Grumman’s NG Con and Integrated Combat Management System was integrated with the CEAFAR to showcase the system’s flexibility in terms of target detection by showcasing various threat scenarios with both controlled and uncontrolled maritime and air targets.