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AN/TPY-2 Radar

AN/TPY-2 Radar

Manufacturer: Raytheon Technologies
Category: Radar Systems
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Detection Range ~1,000 km+
Frequency Band X-band
Antenna Type / Technology AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array)
Target Tracking Capacity Hundreds of targets simultaneously

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	AN/TPY-2 Radar
Manufacturer	Raytheon
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	Long-range missile-defense radar
Operational Domain	Land-based air and missile defense
Status	Operational, in active deployment

2. Technical Specifications

Frequency Band	X-band
Antenna Type	AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array)
Antenna Aperture / Size	Approx. 9.2 m²
Power Output	~150 kW peak (classified exact values)
Detection Range	~1,000 km+
Tracking Range	600–1,000 km
Target Tracking Capacity	Hundreds of targets simultaneously
Elevation Coverage	Up to 90°
Azimuth Coverage	120° (sector coverage)
Beam Steering	Electronic
Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF)	Classified
Resolution	High-resolution discrimination
Update Rate	Rapid, sub-second updates
Clutter Rejection / ECCM	Advanced ECCM and clutter filters

3. Functional Capabilities

Primary Functions	Long-range detection, tracking, discrimination
Target Types	Ballistic missiles, warheads, decoys
Integration / Networking	THAAD, Aegis BMD, C2BMC
IFF Capability	Integrated IFF support
Data Link / Networking	Secure, high-bandwidth data link
Weather & Terrain Resistance	Ruggedized, all-weather
Mobility / Mounting	Trailer-mounted mobile unit

4. Physical & Operational Characteristics

Dimensions	Approx. 8.4 m × 4.1 m × 4.3 m (radar module)
Weight	~20,000 kg total system
Power Requirement	1 MW+ power generation
Cooling System	Liquid cooling system
Operating Temperature Range	–20°C to +50°C
Deployment Platform	Trailer-mounted, ground-based
Crew Requirement	3–5 personnel

5. Software & Processing

Signal Processor Type	High-speed digital processor
Processing Speed	Real-time discrimination computing
AI / Automation Features	Automated target identification
Data Output / Interface	Secure tactical data links
Software Upgradeability	Modular, upgradeable firmware

6. Operational History

Year Introduced	2007
Users / Operators	U.S., Japan, Israel, South Korea, others
Notable Deployments	Middle East, Indo-Pacific, Europe
Successor / Predecessor	Successor to earlier strategic X-band radars

7. Export / Compliance Data

Export Availability	Limited U.S.-approved foreign military sales
ITAR / MTCR Status	Fully ITAR-controlled
Cost Estimate	$500M–$1B per unit (approx.)

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

7.8

Range & Endurance 9 / 10
Stealth Capability 4 / 10
Technology 9 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 9 / 10

PROS

Long-range detection exceeding 1,000 km
High-precision X-band tracking
AESA technology with rapid beam steering
Integration with multiple U.S. missile-defense networks
Proven operational deployment worldwide

CONS

Extremely high acquisition cost
Requires significant power and cooling
Deployment may cause geopolitical tensions
Large logistical footprint
Limited utility outside missile-defense missions

AN/TPY-2 Missile Defense Radar

The AN/TPY-2 is one of the most advanced ground-based missile-defense radars in the world, designed to detect, track, and classify ballistic missile threats at extraordinary ranges. Built by Raytheon for the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA), the radar serves as a cornerstone of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system and is also deployed in standalone forward-based configurations for strategic early warning.

High-Power X-Band Precision

Operating in the X-band frequency, the AN/TPY-2 uses a powerful active electronically scanned array (AESA) antenna capable of tracking small, high-speed targets such as ballistic missile warheads during midcourse and terminal phases. Its beam steering is fully electronic, enabling near-instantaneous target updates and exceptional discrimination accuracy.

Long-Range Detection and Tracking

The radar is known for its long detection range—often cited at 1,000 km or more, depending on configuration and threat profile. It can track hundreds of targets simultaneously, providing high-fidelity tracking data to U.S. and allied missile-defense networks.

Integrated Defense Architecture

A critical advantage of the AN/TPY-2 Radar is its seamless integration with U.S. missile-defense systems, including THAAD, Aegis BMD, and the Command and Control, Battle Management, and Communications (C2BMC) network. Its ability to operate both as forward-based early warning radar and as terminal defense radar gives U.S. and allied forces unmatched operational flexibility.

Global Deployments

The system has been deployed across the Middle East, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific, often playing a strategic role in deterrence and defense planning. Its rugged mobility allows rapid setup on trailers, making it suitable for expeditionary and fixed-site missions.

AN/TPY-2 Radar Price

While no official public pricing is available, defense sources estimate the AN/TPY-2 radar unit cost between $500 million and $1 billion, depending on configuration, integration requirements, and operational support packages.

FAQs

What is the AN/TPY-2 radar used for?

It detects, tracks, and classifies ballistic missiles and supports THAAD and U.S. missile-defense networks.

Who manufactures the AN/TPY-2 radar?

Raytheon, a major U.S. defense contractor.

What is the range of the AN/TPY-2?

Approximately 1,000 km or more for long-range detection.

Is the AN/TPY-2 deployed internationally?

Yes—key sites include Japan, Israel, South Korea, and other U.S. allied territories.

Does the radar integrate with THAAD?

Yes, it is the primary radar sensor for the THAAD missile-defense 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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