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AN/APG‑85 Radar

AN/APG‑85 Radar

Manufacturer: Northrop Grumman
Category: Radar Systems
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Detection Range ~ 370 km (per simulated data)
Frequency Band Not publicly disclosed (wideband AESA)
Antenna Type / Technology Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA)
Target Tracking Capacity Multi-target tracking (air and surface)

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	AN/APG-85
Manufacturer	Northrop Grumman
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	AESA fire‑control radar
Operational Domain	Air (mounted on F-35)
Status	In development / future deployment (from Lot 17)

2. Technical Specifications

Frequency Band	Not publicly disclosed (AESA, wideband)
Antenna Type	AESA (active electronically scanned array)
Antenna Aperture / Size	Not disclosed
Power Output	Not publicly disclosed
Detection Range	~ 370 km (simulated)
Tracking Range	Likely similar to detection range (multi-mode)
Target Tracking Capacity	Multiple air and surface targets
Elevation Coverage	Not publicly disclosed
Azimuth Coverage	Not publicly disclosed
Beam Steering	Electronic via AESA
Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF)	Classified / not public
Resolution	High-resolution SAR imaging mode
Update Rate	Not publicly disclosed
Clutter Rejection / ECCM	Advanced ECCM capabilities via GaN TR modules

3. Functional Capabilities

Primary Functions	Air-to-air detection, ground mapping, SAR imaging, EW integration
Target Types	Aircraft, missiles, UAVs, ground vehicles, installations
Integration / Networking	Fully integrated with F-35 mission systems and EW suite
IFF Capability	Yes, via standard aircraft IFF systems
Data Link / Networking	Likely shares data via F-35 integrated core processor, networks
Weather & Terrain Resistance	All-weather SAR, ground and air modes
Mobility / Mounting	Fixed‑mount radar in the F‑35 nose cone

4. Physical & Operational Characteristics

Dimensions	Not publicly disclosed
Weight	Not publicly disclosed
Power Requirement	Not publicly disclosed
Cooling System	Presumed advanced thermal management (GaN TR modules)
Operating Temperature Range	Not publicly disclosed
Deployment Platform	Lockheed Martin F‑35 Lightning II
Crew Requirement	Pilot (crew of aircraft)

5. Software & Processing

Signal Processor Type	Advanced digital signal processor, integrated with F-35 ICP
Processing Speed	Not publicly disclosed
AI / Automation Features	Not explicitly disclosed, but likely automation in tracking / modes
Data Output / Interface	Interfaces with F‑35’s mission system
Software Upgradeability	Designed to be software-upgradable via modular architecture

6. Operational History

Year Introduced	Projected for Lot 17 / Block 4 (mid‑2020s)
Users / Operators	U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps, allied F‑35 operators
Notable Deployments	Planned for future F‑35 production batches
Successor / Predecessor	Predecessor: AN/APG-81

7. Export / Compliance Data

Export Availability	Controlled under F-35 export policy
ITAR / MTCR Status	Subject to U.S. export regulations (ITAR)
Cost Estimate	Not publicly disclosed

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

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

PROS

Uses GaN TR modules for higher power, better thermal efficiency, and ECCM resilience.
Multifunction: supports air-to-air, air-to-ground, SAR, and EW roles.
Designed for seamless integration with all F‑35 variants (A, B, C).
Software-upgradeable architecture supports future capability growth.
Improved situational awareness and lethality by enhancing F‑35’s sensor suite.

CONS

Many technical specs remain classified or undisclosed.
Likely expensive to develop and maintain, given its advanced technology.
Thermal management challenges due to high-power GaN modules.
Potential delays or risks in integration into F‑35 production (Lot 17+).
Export restrictions may limit availability to allied nations.

AN/APG‑85 Next‑Gen AESA Radar

The AN/APG‑85 is the next-generation active electronically scanned array (AESA) fire‑control radar designed for the F‑35 Lightning II, marking a significant leap in capability for the Joint Strike Fighter. Developed by Northrop Grumman, this cutting-edge radar is intended to replace the current AN/APG‑81 beginning with F‑35 production Lot 17 and Block 4 variants.

Origins & Purpose

Originating in the United States, the AN/APG‑85 reflects Northrop Grumman’s push to modernize the F‑35’s sensor suite. Its goal: to counter evolving airborne and surface threats with a more powerful, resilient, and integrated radar system.

Core Capabilities

Built as a multifunction radar, the AN/APG‑85 supports long-range air-to-air detection and target tracking—covering aircraft, missiles, and UAVs. In ground mode, it delivers high-resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging, useful for reconnaissance, bomb damage assessment, and surface target identification.

One of its most important advances is the likely use of gallium nitride (GaN) transmit/receive modules, which offer greater power, better thermal performance, and enhanced resistance to electronic countermeasures (ECCM) compared to older GaAs-based designs.

Integration & Operational Use

The radar is fully compatible with all three F‑35 variants (A/B/C), ensuring uniform upgrades across the fleet. It integrates tightly with the F‑35’s onboard electronic warfare and mission systems, contributing to advanced situational awareness and survivability. Northrop Grumman is developing it at its Linthicum, Maryland facilities, the same plant that builds the AN/APG-81.

AN/APG‑85 Radar Price
As a high-end, classified military radar system, AN/APG‑85 does not have a publicly disclosed unit price. The cost is bundled within F‑35 procurement budgets and subject to confidential defense contracting agreements.

FAQs

What aircraft uses the AN/APG‑85?

The AN/APG-85 is designed specifically for the Lockheed Martin F‑35 Lightning II, replacing the older APG-81 from Lot 17 / Block 4 onwards.

Who manufactures the AN/APG‑85?

It is developed by Northrop Grumman, the same company that produces the current AN/APG‑81.

What are the major technological improvements over the AN/APG‑81?

Key improvements include GaN transmit/receive modules, which boost power and ECCM performance, plus enhanced resolution and potentially greater electronic warfare integration.

When will the AN/APG‑85 enter service?

It is slated to be integrated into F‑35 Lot 17 production jets, projected around the mid-2020s.

Can the AN/APG‑85 be exported to other countries?

Its export would be governed under existing F‑35 export policy and U.S. regulations (such as ITAR), meaning access would be limited and tightly controlled.

Reviews

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Range & Endurance:

8
Stealth Capability:

8
Technology:

8
Maintenance Efficiency:

8
Average Rating 6 / 10 based on your selection

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