AN/SPY-3 Radar

Full Specifications

AN/SPY-3 X-Band Multi-Function Radar

The AN/SPY-3 is an advanced X-band Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) multifunction radar developed for the U.S. Navy’s next-generation surface combatants. Designed by Raytheon, the system plays a pivotal role in enhancing naval situational awareness, precision targeting, and missile-fire control across the fleet. Initially created for the Zumwalt-class destroyers and Ford-class carriers, the radar delivers unmatched responsiveness in tracking fast, low-altitude, and sea-skimming threats.

High-Precision Target Tracking & Engagement

Engineered for complex maritime environments, the SPY-3 uses electronically steered beams to detect and track air and surface contacts with remarkable accuracy. It excels in missions requiring rapid target acquisition, including supporting Standard Missile (SM-series) engagements and providing fire-control-quality data for naval air-defense systems. Its X-band frequency enables fine-resolution imaging, essential for distinguishing small or stealthy targets.

Advanced Processing & ECCM

The radar features automated resource management, adaptive beamforming, and powerful electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM), enabling reliable operation against jamming, clutter, and adverse weather. Its digital architecture supports continuous software upgrades, ensuring long-term performance in evolving threat environments.

Multi-Mission Maritime Capability

Beyond air-defense roles, the AN/SPY-3 Radar provides navigation support, periscope detection, horizon search, and surface fire control. Its integration with the Dual Band Radar (DBR) architecture on certain U.S. Navy platforms enhances overall battlespace awareness by combining S-band and X-band data.

Designed for Modern U.S. Naval Warfare

Compact, highly automated, and optimized for reduced crew burden, the SPY-3 contributes to modern network-centric operations through seamless connectivity with CEC, Link-16, and Aegis-family systems. Its combination of detection accuracy and rapid engagement capability makes it a keystone technology in America’s layered maritime defense ecosystem.

AN/SPY-3 Radar Price

The U.S. Navy does not publicly disclose the standalone unit price of the AN/SPY-3 radar. However, estimates suggest that the system’s cost is incorporated into the overall program value of ships such as the Zumwalt-class destroyers and Ford-class carriers, where radar, sensors, and combat systems account for a significant portion of total procurement expenses.

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