A software upgrade is giving Northrop Grumman’s AN/TPS-80 Ground/Air Task-Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) sharper eyes on the battlefield, spotting threats farther and enabling faster reactions.
The update adds an enhanced identification system, letting the radar better distinguish friendly units from potential adversaries at greater ranges.
Coupled with an open architecture command-and-control link, the upgrade also allows classified data to be shared more securely across friendly assets.
“G/ATOR’s extended range and improved identification systems provide US and allied forces with a crucial tactical advantage,” said Bob Gough, Vice President of Maritime and Land Systems and Sensor at Northrop.
“Our radar system is designed to perform in the most complex air defense environments — detecting, tracking, and targeting threats in real time.”
The upgrade is being rolled out across all G/ATOR systems in service with the US Air Force and the US Marine Corps.
All-Around Tracking
The G/ATOR is a highly mobile, long-range AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar system operating on mid-frequency signals.
It provides 360-degree tracking and precise fire control for a wide array of threats, including hypervelocity missiles and both crewed and uncrewed aerial platforms.
Northrop has deployed 39 G/ATORs so far, with the 40th radar expected to enter service soon.
