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AN/APG-77 AESA Radar

AN/APG-77 AESA Radar

Manufacturer: Northrop Grumman
Category: Radar Systems
  • Detection Range Not publicly disclosed
  • Frequency Band X band
  • Antenna Type / Technology Active Electronically Scanned Array
  • Target Tracking Capacity Multiple targets

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation AN/APG-77
Manufacturer Northrop Grumman, with Raytheon involvement
Country of Origin United States
Type / Role Airborne multimode AESA fire control radar
Operational Domain Air
Status Operational

2. Technical Specifications

Frequency Band X band
Antenna Type AESA
Antenna Aperture / Size Not publicly disclosed
Power Output Approximately 20 kW peak, publicly reported
Detection Range Not publicly disclosed
Tracking Range Not publicly disclosed
Target Tracking Capacity Multiple targets
Elevation Coverage Not publicly disclosed
Azimuth Coverage Approximately 120 degrees
Beam Steering Electronic, rapid AESA beam steering
Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF) Not publicly disclosed
Resolution Not publicly disclosed
Update Rate Not publicly disclosed
Clutter Rejection / ECCM Advanced electronic protection, detailed parameters classified

3. Functional Capabilities

Primary Functions Air to air search, tracking, targeting, air to ground sensing
Target Types Aircraft and ground targets
Integration / Networking Integrated with F-22 avionics and sensor fusion
IFF Capability Integrated combat identification capability
Data Link / Networking Integrated F-22 tactical communications architecture
Weather & Terrain Resistance All weather operation
Mobility / Mounting Fixed installation in F-22 nose

4. Physical & Operational Characteristics

Dimensions Not publicly disclosed
Weight Not publicly disclosed
Power Requirement Not publicly disclosed
Cooling System Aircraft integrated cooling system
Operating Temperature Range Not publicly disclosed
Deployment Platform F-22 Raptor
Crew Requirement One F-22 pilot

5. Software & Processing

Signal Processor Type Digital radar signal processing architecture
Processing Speed Not publicly disclosed
AI / Automation Features Automated detection and tracking functions; no public evidence of modern generative AI
Data Output / Interface Integrated F-22 avionics and cockpit displays
Software Upgradeability Upgradeable through F-22 modernization programs

6. Operational History

Year Introduced Initial operational capability, January 2006
Users / Operators United States Air Force
Notable Deployments F-22 operational deployments and exercises
Successor / Predecessor No direct successor publicly assigned; APG-81 shares related technology

7. Export / Compliance Data

Export Availability Not commercially exported; F-22 export restrictions apply
ITAR / MTCR Status U.S. defense technology subject to export controls
Cost Estimate Historical estimate: $4.8 million to $5.4 million per radar

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

9.5
  • Range & Endurance 10 / 10
  • Stealth Capability 10 / 10
  • Technology 10 / 10
  • Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10

PROS

  1. AESA electronic beam steering
  2. Low probability of intercept design
  3. Multi target tracking
  4. Air to air and air to ground modes
  5. Supports F-22 sensor fusion and stealth operations

CONS

  1. Detailed performance data remains classified
  2. High acquisition and integration cost
  3. Designed specifically around the F-22
  4. Limited public information on maintenance requirements
  5. No longer associated with a new fighter production program
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AN/APG-77 AESA Radar: F-22 Raptor Sensor

The AN/APG-77 is the primary fire control radar of the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor, combining active electronically scanned array technology with low probability of intercept features. Designed for air superiority, the radar gives the F-22 long range situational awareness, multi target tracking, precision targeting, and electronic protection capabilities. Northrop Grumman identifies it as an air to air and air to ground radar designed to support the Raptor’s stealth and sensor fusion architecture.

Unlike mechanically scanned radars, the APG-77 uses an AESA antenna containing numerous transmit and receive modules. Electronic beam steering allows the radar to shift beams rapidly without moving the antenna. Its low observable characteristics also help reduce the chance that an opposing radar warning receiver can detect the F-22 through radar emissions. Public sources identify the system as an X band radar, while detailed operational performance figures remain classified.

Manufacturer

The AN/APG-77 was developed through a Northrop Grumman led team with Raytheon, with Northrop Grumman responsible for overall radar design, software, integration, and testing. Earlier development involved Westinghouse and Texas Instruments, whose relevant businesses were later acquired by Northrop Grumman and Raytheon.

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Speed and Range

The radar itself has no speed. It is carried by the F-22 Raptor, which is capable of supersonic flight and was designed for long range air combat. The APG-77’s exact detection and tracking ranges are not publicly confirmed. Claims of specific maximum ranges should therefore be treated cautiously. Its publicly documented functions include multi target detection, tracking, air to air combat, and air to ground sensing.

Cost / Price

A historical Forecast International estimate placed the APG-77 at approximately $4.8 million to $5.4 million per aircraft in 2012. This is not a current procurement price, and modern replacement, upgrade, integration, and support costs can differ substantially.

FAQs

What is the AN/APG-77 radar?

The AN/APG-77 is an X band AESA fire control radar developed for the F-22 Raptor.

Who makes the AN/APG-77?

Northrop Grumman is responsible for the overall radar design and system integration, with Raytheon involved in development and production.

How far can the APG-77 detect aircraft?

Its exact detection range is classified or not publicly confirmed. Public sources do not provide a reliable official maximum figure.

Is the APG-77 an AESA radar?

Yes. It uses an active electronically scanned array, allowing rapid electronic beam steering and multiple simultaneous radar functions.

How much does the APG-77 radar cost?

A historical 2012 estimate put the average unit cost at about $4.8 million to $5.4 million. That figure should not be treated as a current replacement or procurement price.

Notes

The AN/APG-77 is a specialized F-22 radar, so many technical specifications, including actual detection performance, tracking limits, processing characteristics, power requirements, and detailed electronic warfare capabilities, are not publicly released. Where official figures are unavailable, this listing uses Not publicly disclosed rather than presenting estimates as confirmed specifications.

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Disclaimer Note

The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data.TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content.We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content.External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.

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