Hensoldt to boost Ukraine's air defense with $110M radar package

The German enterprise Hensoldt has declared its plan to supply Ukraine with an additional six TRML-4D radars in 2024, aimed at bolstering the country's air defense capabilities. This initiative is part of a support package valued at over $110 million.

Hensoldt highlighted the significance of this delivery, stating it will push the total count of TRML-4D radars manufactured beyond 50 units. Oliver Dörre, the company's CEO, remarked, “The demand for our radars in supporting Ukrainian air defense is urgent, and we take pride in our commitment to deliver all units within this year. The positive feedback from our clients underscores the crucial role of rapid radar deployment in safeguarding civilian lives.”

Equipped with AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) technology, the TRML-4D radars boast an electronically scanned array antenna. This leading-edge technology ensures superior detection capabilities, even against challenging targets, and robust resistance to electronic countermeasures. These radars can be installed on either a towed trailer or a truck chassis, featuring an antenna mounted on an extendable mast.

The technology behind the radar enables the identification and monitoring of approximately 1,500 objects with an effective reflection surface of 0.01 square meters (roughly 0.11 square feet) within a 250 km (about 155 miles) radius, subject to the target’s specifications and altitude. Such data is crucial for coordinating air defense mechanisms linked to the radar. Additionally, the radar's software aids in the classification of targets — distinguishing among maneuvering missiles, drones, and fixed-wing or rotary aircraft — which significantly improves target prioritization.

Noteworthy is the radar's rotating antenna, capable of 360-degree object detection, contrasting with the limited 120-degree detection scope of older systems like the Patriot. In cases where the antenna’s rotation speed is insufficient for quick target position updates (less than one second), the radar can switch to a stationary beam, narrowing its detection angle to 100 degrees.

With the forthcoming delivery, Ukraine's inventory of TRML-4D radars will grow from nine to fifteen units. These radars are crucial components of the short-range air defense battery IRIS-T SLM. Moreover, their compatibility with various air defense systems enhances their operational flexibility and overall defense effectiveness.