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AN/FPS‑117 Radar

AN/FPS‑117 Radar

Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin
Category: Radar Systems
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Detection Range ~470 km (≈250 nmi)
Frequency Band 1,215–1,400 MHz (L-band)
Antenna Type / Technology AESA (active electronically scanned array), pencil-beam
Target Tracking Capacity 3D (azimuth, range, elevation)

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	AN/FPS‑117
Manufacturer	Lockheed Martin (originally GE Aerospace)
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	3D Long-Range Air Surveillance Radar
Operational Domain	Ground-based early warning / air defense
Status	In active use, being modernized via EPRP

2. Technical Specifications

Frequency Band	1,215–1,400 MHz (L-band)
Antenna Type	AESA pencil-beam, phased array
Antenna Aperture / Size	~52.6 m² (active array area)

3. Functional Capabilities

4. Physical & Operational Characteristics

5. Software & Processing

6. Operational History

7. Export / Compliance Data

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

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

PROS

Exceptional long-range detection (~470 km)
3D coverage (range, azimuth, elevation) in one radar
Low maintenance with solid-state, redundant design
Minimal crew required; supports remote or unattended sites
Proven, fielded system with extensive global track record

CONS

Large physical footprint and infrastructure needed
Lower absolute transmitter power compared to older high-power radars
Limited mobility (fixed or semi-transportable, not highly mobile)
Upgrades may require substantial investment despite modernization
L-band frequencies may be more susceptible to certain kinds of jamming

AN/FPS‑117 Long‑Range 3D Surveillance Radar

The AN/FPS‑117 is a proven, high-performance long‑range surveillance radar that forms a critical part of modern air‑defense and early‑warning networks. Originally developed in the 1980s and now manufactured by Lockheed Martin, this solid-state, active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar is optimized to deliver reliable, 3D air search capability in some of the most remote and demanding environments.

Origin, Manufacturer & Purpose

Developed first by GE Aerospace and later modernized under Lockheed Martin, the AN/FPS‑117 was fielded under the U.S. Seek Igloo program to replace earlier radar systems in the Arctic warning chain. Its primary mission: provide long‑range detection of aerial threats, operate with minimal crew, and interface with command & control systems in air defense networks.

Key Capabilities & Technology

Operating in the L-band (1,215–1,400 MHz), the radar uses a pencil‑beam AESA architecture that balances power efficiency with high sensitivity. Thanks to its solid-state transmitter and redundant architecture, it supports unattended or minimally manned operation — vital for remote sites.

The radar provides 3D coverage (range, azimuth, elevation) out to approximately 470 km (250 nmi), with an elevation coverage from –6° to +20° and full 360° azimuth. Its scan rate can be 5 or 6 revolutions per minute, giving a responsive update rate for tracking high-altitude targets. Clutter rejection, interference suppression, and electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM) are built in, allowing for operation even in contested environments.

Operational Use & Deployment

The AN/FPS‑117 has been deployed across North America as part of the North Warning System (NWS), linking fixed sites across Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. Thanks to remote control features, many of these radar sites are minimally attended or even fully unmanned. Over the years, Lockheed Martin has carried out modernization efforts (via the Essential Parts Replacement Program) to update processors, power systems, and IFF capability — extending the radar’s service life well into the future.

AN/FPS‑117 Radar Price in United States

While the AN/FPS‑117 is a specialized defense radar system rather than a commercial product, its modernization and replacement contracts (such as the U.S. Air Force EPRP program) have been publicly awarded. For instance, Lockheed Martin’s contract option to modernize 29 sites was awarded at around $46.8 million.

FAQs

What is the detection range of the AN/FPS‑117 radar?

The system can detect targets out to approximately 470 km (250 nautical miles) depending on target size and conditions.

What frequency band does the AN/FPS‑117 operate in?

It operates in the L‑band, specifically from about 1,215 to 1,400 MHz.

Is the AN/FPS‑117 radar manned or unmanned?

Many deployed units operate with minimal crew or fully remote/unattended, thanks to its redundant, software‑controlled architecture.

What upgrades has the AN/FPS‑117 received over time?

Under the Essential Parts Replacement Program (EPRP), Lockheed Martin has modernized core electronics, signal processors, and power systems — extending its operational life and improving maintainability.

Which countries use the AN/FPS‑117?

Beyond the U.S., the AN/FPS‑117 radar is used by several NATO allies and partner nations. Deployment includes early warning sites in North America (Alaska, Canada) as part of the North Warning System.

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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