MURAD is a solid-state active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system developed by Aselsan, Turkey's leading defense electronics company. The radar is designed to enhance air combat capabilities and features advanced multi-mode functionality for a variety of operational requirements. It employs cutting-edge technology to ensure high reliability and performance across different environments.[1]
 | |
| Country of origin | Turkey |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Aselsan |
| Designer | Aselsan |
| Introduced | In development |
| Type | Solid-state AESA |
| Frequency | L and S band |
| Range | >250 km (air-to-air) |
| Altitude | Up to 60,000 ft |
| Diameter | 1.5 m |
| Azimuth | 360 degrees |
| Elevation | ±60 degrees |
| Precision | <1 meter (air-to-ground) |
| Power | 30 kW (peak) |
Development
editThe development of the MURAD AESA radar commenced in the early 2020s, with the aim of meeting the increasing demands for advanced radar systems in modern air combat. The radar was first showcased at the 2022 Istanbul Airshow, demonstrating its capabilities in real-time target detection and tracking.[2] The radar's design focuses on flexibility and modularity, allowing it to be integrated into various aircraft platforms.
Aselsan is the primary contractor, overseeing the radar's development, testing, and production processes. The radar system aims to enhance the capabilities of existing platforms while being suitable for future fighter jets.[3]
Testing
editAs of 2024, the MURAD radar has successfully completed initial testing phases, with numerous flight tests conducted on various testbed aircraft. The radar's performance includes a range exceeding 250 km for air-to-air engagements, with enhanced capabilities for air-to-ground and maritime surveillance.[4] The system is expected to be fully operational by 2025.
Features
edit- Full solid-state (electronics) radar system, utilizing GaN technology
- High MTBF (redundancy)
- Range: >250 km (air-to-air), 100 km (air-to-ground)
- Maximum altitude: Up to 60,000 ft
- Diameter: 1.5 m
- Azimuth: 360 degrees
- Elevation: ±60 degrees
- Precision: <1 meter (air-to-ground)
- Average power: 3-5 kW
- Peak power: 30 kW
- Multi-target tracking capabilities (up to 64 targets)
- Simultaneous multi-mode operation
- Advanced ECM immunity
- Low side-lobe antenna characteristics
- Modular hardware and software for easy upgrades
- Fast-beam agility and scanning capabilities
- Identification friend or foe (IFF) capabilities
- Compatible with existing Turkish Air Force platforms
Operational modes
editThe MURAD AESA radar encompasses various operational modes across air, ground, and maritime roles. The operational modes have been validated during test flights and are designed to meet the diverse needs of the Turkish Armed Forces.
- Air-to-air
- Multi-target detection and tracking
- Target engagement in cluttered environments
- Air-to-ground
- High-resolution imaging and tracking
- Ground moving target indication (GMTI)
- Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capabilities
- Air-to-sea
- Maritime target detection and tracking
- Search and rescue operations
- Anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capabilities
Applications
editThe MURAD radar is designed for integration with various Turkish fighter jets and UAV platforms, including:
- TAI TF Kaan (Planned): The next-generation fighter jet of the Turkish Air Force.
- F-16C/D Özgür/Özgür II (Testing phase): Integration with F-16s for improved target acquisition.
- Bayraktar Akinci (Planned): Planned integration with advanced UAVs for multi-role capabilities.
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ "THE EVOLUTION OF AIR SUPERIORITY: MURAD 110-A AESA MULTI-FUNCTIONAL FIRE CONTROL RADAR". Retrieved 2024-10-30.
- ^ "Good news about MURAD AESA Radar from ASELSAN".
- ^ "ASELSAN Delivers MURAD Radar for AKINCI UCAV and F-16". Retrieved 2024-10-30.
- ^ "New Aselsan radar makes debut flight on F-16 aircraft". Retrieved 2024-10-30.