Date posted: 09/27/2006*

Raytheon’s next-generation F-15 AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar system has been delivered to the Air Force for the final phase of developmental testing. This testing entails multiple flight tests to ensure the AESA radar system meets all performance specifications and requirements. A mock-up of the AESA is on display at this week’s Air Force Association Air and Space Conference.

Earlier this summer, Raytheon delivered the AESA radar ahead of schedule to Boeing’s F-15 facility in St. Louis. AESA subsystem integration and final system verification in Raytheon’s Radar System Integration Lab was achieved in a record seven weeks; six to 12 months is the norm. This early delivery followed a series of successful flight tests that began in May. The APG-63(V)3 AESA radar exceeded all performance expectations during the Raytheon flight test on a Raytheon testbed.

“The (V)3 AESA radar’s ability to act as the core sensor backbone of the aircraft by providing accurate and timely information makes it a true force multiplier for the F-15,” said Erv Grau, vice president for Air Combat Avionics at Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems. “Its ability to provide increased situational awareness across multiple assets will provide the Air Force and Air National Guard a low-cost, low-risk and proven capability to ensure homeland defense requirements are fully met.”

“The F-15C V(3) AESA radar flight testing with the Air Force is the next critical step in a long and successful relationship between Boeing and Raytheon, providing F-15 pilots world-class air-to-air radar and weapon system capability. This mid-life upgrade to the F-15C weapon system will maintain the Eagle’s role as a key asset in our nation’s defense force,” said Jim Means, director for Boeing Global Strike Systems Proprietary Programs.

The APG-63(V)3 radar combines the revolutionary technology of the Navy’s APG-79 AESA radar program, already in production, with improvements on the APG-63(V)2, currently operational with a squadron at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska.

With advanced radar technology that F-15 pilots can trust from takeoff to landing on every mission, the APG-63(V)3 will enhance aircrew survivability and connectivity with other allied forces, according to Ramon Estrada, manager of F-15 AESA programs for Raytheon.

“The Navy is already experiencing the benefits of our advanced generation technology through the APG-79 AESA radar on their F/A-18 Super Hornets,” Estrada said. “We are now looking forward to providing the Air National Guard with their next-generational capability through the APG-63(V)3. Raytheon’s radar will provide powerful, adaptable technology, proven performance, and the tactical flexibility that F-15 pilots require and our nation’s defense demands.”

The Air Force Association 2006 Air and Space Conference and Technology Exposition provides an opportunity for military, government, industry, academia and the public to discuss important national defense issues while offering professional networking opportunities.

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