AN/FPS-117 Radar

Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin
Category: Radar and Jamming Systems
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Detection Range Over 400 km
Frequency Band L band
Antenna Type / Technology Phased array
Target Tracking Capacity Hundreds of targets

Defense Systems Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	AN/FPS-117
Manufacturer	Lockheed Martin
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	Long range air surveillance radar
Operational Domain	Air
Status	In active service

2. Technical Specifications

Frequency Band	L band
Antenna Type	Solid state phased array
Antenna Aperture / Size	Large fixed planar array
Power Output	High power solid state modules
Detection Range	Up to 470 km
Tracking Range	Over 400 km
Target Tracking Capacity	500 plus targets
Elevation Coverage	Up to 20 degrees
Azimuth Coverage	360 degrees
Beam Steering	Electronic
Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF)	Variable
Resolution	High range and altitude resolution
Update Rate	Few seconds
Clutter Rejection / ECCM	Advanced digital ECCM

3. Functional Capabilities

Primary Functions	Early warning, airspace surveillance
Target Types	Aircraft, helicopters, missiles
Integration / Networking	Air defense C2 systems
IFF Capability	Integrated IFF support
Data Link / Networking	Secure military data links
Weather & Terrain Resistance	High
Mobility / Mounting	Fixed site

4. Physical & Operational Characteristics

Dimensions	Large fixed installation
Weight	Several tons
Power Requirement	External grid or generator
Cooling System	Environmental control system
Operating Temperature Range	Wide, all weather
Deployment Platform	Ground fixed
Crew Requirement	Minimal on site crew

5. Software & Processing

Signal Processor Type	Digital solid state
Processing Speed	Real time
AI / Automation Features	Automated tracking and alerts
Data Output / Interface	Standard military interfaces
Software Upgradeability	Modular upgrades

6. Operational History

Year Introduced	Late 1980s
Users / Operators	United States and allies
Notable Deployments	National air defense sites
Successor / Predecessor	Predecessor to newer AESA systems

7. Export / Compliance Data

Export Availability	Limited to approved allies
ITAR / MTCR Status	ITAR controlled
Cost Estimate	Tens of millions USD

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

7.8

Range & Endurance 10 / 10
Stealth Capability 5 / 10
Technology 7 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 9 / 10

PROS

Long detection range
Solid state design improves reliability
Strong ECCM performance
Proven operational history
Compatible with modern air defense networks

CONS

Fixed site limits mobility
High acquisition cost
Large infrastructure requirement
Not optimized for low observable targets
Export subject to restrictions

AN/FPS-117 Long Range Air Surveillance Radar

The AN/FPS-117 is a long range, ground based air surveillance radar developed to provide continuous early warning and airspace monitoring. Designed for national air defense and regional security missions, the system is widely used by the United States and allied nations for persistent detection and tracking of airborne threats.

Manufacturer and Origin

The AN/FPS-117 is manufactured by Lockheed Martin and originated in the United States. It was developed as part of the U.S. Air Force long range surveillance radar program to replace aging mechanically scanned systems with a more reliable solid state solution.

Core Capabilities and Technology

Operating in the L band, the AN/FPS-117 is a three dimensional radar capable of measuring target range, azimuth, and altitude. It uses a solid state phased array antenna, allowing electronic beam steering without mechanical rotation. This design improves reliability, reduces maintenance needs, and enables high update rates.

The radar can detect and track aircraft, helicopters, and some missile targets at ranges exceeding 400 kilometers, depending on target size and altitude. Advanced clutter rejection and electronic counter countermeasure features allow effective operation in dense air traffic environments and under electronic attack.

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Operational Use

The AN/FPS-117 is typically deployed as a fixed installation, often housed within a protective radome. It supports integrated air defense networks by feeding real time data to command and control systems. Its high availability makes it suitable for continuous 24 hour operations in remote or harsh environments.

AN/FPS-117 Radar Price

The exact price of the AN/FPS-117 radar in the United States is not publicly disclosed. Open source estimates suggest unit costs in the tens of millions of U.S. dollars, depending on configuration, infrastructure, and support packages.

FAQs

What is the main role of the AN/FPS-117 radar

It provides long range air surveillance and early warning.

Is the AN/FPS-117 a 3D radar

Yes, it provides range, altitude, and azimuth data.

Which frequency band does it use

It operates in the L band.

Can it resist electronic jamming

Yes, it includes ECCM features.

Is it still in service today

Yes, it remains operational with several countries.

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