Spy radars for defence destroyers

The first two ‘SPY’ radar array faces, to be installed on the Air Warfare Destroyers (AWDs), have arrived in Adelaide.

“The multifunction SPY radar is capable of search, automatic detection, tracking of air and surface targets and missile engagement support,” said Jason Clare, Minister of Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO).

“It works to distinguish signals from stationary or moving targets and to identify and reject ‘clutter’ such as clouds and flocks of birds.”

The AN/SPY-1D(V) phased array radar will provide the Hobart class destroyers with comprehensive surveillance around the ship. The SPY radar is the main sensor for the Aegis Weapon System and is readily recognisable by the four octagonal-shaped array faces that are located on the superstructure of the ship.

The four array faces send out beams of electromagnetic energy in all directions, providing a continuous search and tracking capability for hundreds of targets.

The SPY radar, combined with the SPQ-9B horizon search radar, will ensure each of the AWDs goes into service with the latest radar packages.

The AWDs are claimed to provide greater protection for Australian Defence Force personnel by providing air defence for accompanying ships as well as land forces and infrastructure on nearby coastal areas.

The AN/SPY-1D(V) radar was supplied by US company Lockheed Martin and acquired by the Australian Government through the Foreign Military Sales program.