AESA radar — Pan-domain multi-function capabilities for future systems

Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar technology is now relatively mature, with numerous systems in service on air, land, sea and space platforms. There is an increasing drive to expand the multi-functionality of systems both within traditional radar frequency bands and, increasingly, by the adoption of wideband or multi-band technologies. These developments present major technical and engineering challenges in implementing optimised solutions within cost and installation constraints. Major enablers are a modular, scalable approach which limits non-recurring expenditure, and a drive to re-use technologies in as many applications as possible. Selex ES operates across the land, sea and air domains and has developed a `design once use many times´ design philosophy which has already delivered significant benefits. This paper describes the current state-of-the-art in AESA radar systems in Selex ES, and considers future developments, especially wideband multifunction systems and common technical approaches across the land, sea and air domains.