SYRACUSE, N.Y., July 30 (UPI) -- Lockheed Martin has demonstrated a full-scale prototype of a new long-range air surveillance radar for the U.S. Air Force.
Lockheed is developing the Three-Dimensional Expeditionary Long-Range Radar system as a replacement for the Air Force's AN/TPS-75 air search radar.
The 3DELRR will serve as the Air Force's main long-range, ground-based sensor for detecting, identifying, and reporting aerial targets.
"We began working a 3DELRR solution more than 10 years ago and are the only prime contractor that has been involved with each phase of the program up to this point," said Mark Mekker, director of ground-based air surveillance programs at Lockheed Martin.
"Since day one, we have partnered with our customer to provide the most affordable 3DELRR solution that addresses their mission -- because we understand their mission. We are implementing a cost-effective, long-term solution that addresses the challenges they face today and those they will face tomorrow, as well as being able to consolidate the missions of several other long-range radars currently in service."
In the demonstration – viewed Air Force, Marine Corps and Department of Defense personnel -- the radar detected required targets of opportunity launched from an airport and surrounding areas.
Lockheed Martin was awarded a pre-engineering manufacturing development phase contract for the system in 2012. The Air Force will select a single-contractor for the system's engineering and manufacturing development phase in 2014.
