RTX KuRFS Counter Drone System

Full Specifications

RTX KuRFS Counter Drone Radar System

The RTX KuRFS (Ku-band Radio Frequency System) is a high-performance multi-mission AESA radar developed to support modern counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) operations. Built to detect, track, and classify small drones alongside rockets, artillery, and mortar threats, KuRFS provides military forces with accurate situational awareness in complex environments. Although KuRFS is primarily a radar sensor rather than a complete weapon system, it serves as a core component within integrated counter-drone architectures by supplying precise targeting data to electronic warfare systems, kinetic interceptors, and directed energy weapons.

Manufacturer

KuRFS is manufactured by RTX (formerly Raytheon Technologies) in the United States. The radar was developed to meet evolving U.S. Army and joint force requirements for defending military bases, critical infrastructure, and forward operating locations against increasingly sophisticated unmanned aerial threats.

Speed, Range, and Performance

Operating in the Ku-band, KuRFS uses Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology to provide rapid beam steering without mechanical movement. The radar can detect and track very small UAVs while simultaneously monitoring numerous airborne threats. Depending on target size and operating conditions, drone detection ranges generally extend to approximately 10 to 20 km, while larger rockets and mortar rounds can be detected at greater distances.

KuRFS delivers continuous 360-degree surveillance, high update rates, and accurate fire-control quality tracking, enabling quick cueing of interceptors or electronic attack systems. Its digital architecture also supports integration with modern command and control networks and AI-assisted threat management software.

Cost / Price

RTX has not publicly disclosed the unit price of the KuRFS radar. Procurement costs vary depending on system configuration, integration requirements, support equipment, and customer-specific contracts.

KuRFS is widely regarded as one of the United States’ most capable tactical radar solutions for layered air defense and counter-drone missions, supporting homeland security, expeditionary operations, and protection of high-value military assets.