Discuss PN potential up-gradation of FFGs

[Myth_buster_1]

This Thread is dedicated to PN potential up-gradation of FFGs only.

By 2014 8 FFGs will be delivered to PN after intensive refurbishment which will extend its life and retain systems that were striped off for USN FFGs only.
These platforms which are free of cost and the refurbishment paid with US Military founds will be a very cost effective solution and IMO PN will most likely upgrade their FFGs.




Combat Management System in 21st century warfare is very essential for surface combatants and FFGs should not be left behind. According to Turkish sources Pakistan navy has shown keen interest and will likely acquire this system for its FFGs.

GENESİS
21st Century Combat Management System for Perry-Class Frigates

A state-of-the-art combat management system to quickly, efficiently and effectively detect, identify, track and engage air, surface and subsurface threats across multiple radar and surveillance systems for optimum awareness and decision making.

Benefits
- Reduces the footprint and
complexity of the FFG 7
combat management system
- Uses powerful modern
COTS computers and network
technology
- Supports multiple radars and
integrates data into a single
coherent picture for optimum
situational awareness
- Expands identification,
detection and tracking
capabilities
- Provides comprehensive
intelligence quickly for
improved decision making
- Easily supported, maintained
and upgraded

GENESİS Modernization
- State-of-the-art, COTS network, CPUs and computers have high
mean time between failure
- Modern COTS processors can track thousands of targets
- Consoles with two 21-inch, color, high-resolution displays can be
customized like a desktop computer to encompass expanded
surveillance through available TV cameras and a video distribution
system
- Automatic detection and tracking with twice as many radars, as
well as automatic correlation capability
- Automatically identifies threats, selects and launches decoys and
recommends course and speed to maximize decoy effectiveness
- Phalanx search radar is integrated into GENESİS, and GENESİS has
the ability to order Phalanx to engage a selected target. Also,
GENESİS enables Phalanx to engage a MK 92 target
- Air test target DTE time reduced by more than 50 percent
-Shore engagement reaction times reduced by more than 98 percent
- Open LAN architecture enables continuous enhancements and
addition of new capabilities such as gunfire control, dual data
links and more
- Seamless Multi-Link capability with potential future growth

Naval ships around the world must defend themselves against increasingly sophisticated threats. To counter these threats, SPY-5 uniquely combines the unsurpassed, lowaltitude horizon search capability of X-band radar with simultaneous threat illumination, missile midcourse guidance and terminal homing to provide outstanding capability in the littorals and other maritime environments.

In my opinion its quite essential to equip these frigates with SPY-5 which increases the performance by many times. This system is specifically targeted at those costumers who are looking for a cost effective and a reliable solution for almost all type of surface combatant vessels.

Benefits

- Counters simultaneously
multiple surface and air threat
raids (current and future)
- Performs search, track and
illumination of multiple targets
- Provides increased firepower
to the combatant
- Open system design is highly
compatible with all digital
combat management systems
- Eliminates the need of multiple
radar types
- Requires minimal maintenance
and manning while providing
high reliability and performance
- Requires minimal ship
alterations to modernize
existing platforms
- Enables the full performance
of the Evolved SeaSparrow
Missile
- Provides necessary tracking for
active, semi-active and EO/IR
missiles
- Delivers an optimal solution
for smaller warships and larger
combatants

The FFG air surveillance radar is a very long range radar with 400+KM range and the A(V)1 configuration provides enhanced capabilities and utilizes ESSM and SM-2 block IIIA very effectively.


FFG UPGRADE
Air search radar AN/SPS-49(V)4 radar to the A(V)1
configuration provides:

• Automatic target detection
• Improved waveform and signal
processing for low altitude/small
radar cross section (RCS) targets
• Coherent side lobe cancellation
giving considerable electronic
protection capability
• Two scan threat alerts
• Improved reliability.


Air surveillance capability

• The long-range air surveillance,
target indication and Automatic
Detect and Track (ADT) functions
are upgraded
• The AN/SPS 49A(V)1 long-range
air surveillance radar provides
improved low elevation small
target performance and increased
detection range
• The Electro Optical Tracking System
(EOTS) is integrated into the combat
system and provides a new fire
control channel
• The Electronic Support (ES) function
is replaced by a modern high
performance system.

It is already crystal clear that PN newly induction of RGM-84 Harpoon block II missiles will be primary AShM.
As for SAM the only series of missiles that can be launched from MK-13 launching system is Standard Missiles 2 series.

ASW capability of FFGs.

The frigate will be refurbished with anti-submarine missile and other latest systems at a cost of $ 65 million.

This is a 2 year old source and now the cost of refurbishment have been raised from 65 to 78 million dollars. Meaning more systems and up gradation of existing systems would be performed.

Interestingly, In 90s FFG-08 were upgraded with SQQ-89 V2 ASW Combat System.

The AN/SQQ-89 is the ASW Combat System for all surface combatants and will be the technological foundation for the ASW combat system of the DD-21. The ANISQQ-89 combat system suite provides Oliver Hazard Perry (FFG-7), Spruance (DD-963), Ticonderoga (CG-47), and Arleigb Burke (DDG-51) warships with an integrated undersea warfare detection, clas-sification, display, and targeting capability. The system combines and processes all active sonar information, and processes and displays all SH-60B Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System (LAMPS) Mk III sensor data.

FFG-7 OLIVER HAZARD PERRY-class Upgrades

PERRY-class ships were produced in two variants, known as "short-hull" and "long-hull", with the later variant being eight feet longer than the short-hull version. The long-hull ships [FFG 8, 28, 29, 32, 33, 36-61] carry the SH-60B LAMPS III helicopters, while the short-hull units carry the less-capable SH-2G.

The units with long hulls (FFG 7, 8, 15, 28, 29, 32, 36-61) were to have had the sonar suite upgraded to SQQ-89(V)2, with SQS-56 hull sonar retained, SQR-19 towed linear passive hydrophone array added, and SQQ-28 helicopter sonobuoy datalink system added. There were, however, significant delays in the development of the SQQ-89’s processor equipment, and many ships received the SQR-18A towed array with SQR-17 processor as an interim fit. FFG 8 received the towed array during FY 87, along with FFG 55-60; in FY 88, FFG 28, 29, 32, 36, and 39 were equipped; in FY 90, FFG 7 and 15 received the system during overhauls (FFG 7 was lengthened and received the SQQ-89 suite but was not equipped with RAST, leaving her unable to employ SH-60B helicopters); under the FY 91 budget, FFG 9, 48-50, and 52 were modified, and in FY 92, FFG 20 and 51 were equipped. FFG 12 is unusual in having the electronics fit for the LAMPS-III system and in having the towed sonar array but not having had the hull extension to permit flying SH-60B LAMPS-III helicopters. As of 1997, two variants of the SQQ-89 sonar system were in service on this class: SQQ-89(V)10 on FFG 14, 30, 34, 37, 50, 51, 52, and 54, with SQR-19B(V)2 towed array sonar; and SQQ-89(V)2 on FFG 7-9, 11-13, 15, 28, 29, 32, 33, 36, 38-43, 45-49, 53, 55-59, and 61, with SQR-19(V)2 and the UYQ-25A(V)2 processor.

For Arabian Gulf service, FFG 22 and 47 were equipped in 1991 with 25-mm Mk 38 Bushmaster low-angle chain guns amidships on the main deck, and others have since had the weapon added when on deployment. FFG 47 received a Kingfisher mine-avoidance modification to her SQS-56 sonar. FFG 37 conducted trials with the McDonnell Douglas Astronautics Mast-Mounted Sight (a modified helicopter electro-optical device) atop the pilothouse, with the display being in the CIC.

USS Halyburton (FFG-40) completed a Norfolk docking availability in March 2000 in which it received a prototype installation of a new ship service diesel engine on its number four generator. The new engine replaces its originally configured Detroit Diesel 16V-149 series, which is presently installed on all Oliver Hazard Perry (FFG-7) Class frigates. One of the primary drivers for the effort to re-engine the frigate diesels was life cycle affordability. The Detroit Diesels were of a two-stroke design that are no longer in production. This engine is a high-cost driver to the Fleet through high overhaul costs and relatively low time between major overhauls. It is a major item on the Top Management Attention and Top Management Issues (TMA/TMI) program, which assesses items that show undesirable metrics and are costly to maintain. In addition, this engine does not meet current EPA and proposed IMO emission requirements.

Displacements have steadily increased, to the detriment of stability. FFG 59 was delivered at 4,100 tons full load, although the class was designed for 3,600 tons and with only 39 tons planned growth margin. These ships are particularly well protected against splinter and fragmentation damage, with 19-mm aluminum-alloy armor over magazine spaces, 16-mm steel over the main engine-control room, and 19-mm Kevlar plastic armor over vital electronics and command spaces. Because of a hull twisting problem, doubler plates have been added over the hull sides amidships just below the main deck. Speed on one turbine alone is 25 knots. The auxiliary power system uses two retractable pods located well forward and can drive the ships at up to 6 knots. Fin stabilizers began to be backfitted in earlier units, beginning with FFG 26, in 1982.

IMO for PN FFG refurbishments, the SQQ-89(V)2 will be upgraded to SQQ-89(V)10 configuration.
Interestingly The USN DDG and CG have been recently upgraded to (V) 15 configuration.

AN/SQR-19 Tactical Towed Array SONAR (TACTAS)
The AN/SQR-19 Tactical Towed Array SONAR (TACTAS) provides very long-range passive detection of enemy submarines. TACTAS is a long cable full of microphones that is towed about a mile behind the ship. It is towed so far behind the ship so as to not let noise radiating from the ship itself interfere with the noise picked up from targets. Using that noise can determine exactly what ship or submarine is being tracked. The AN/SQR-19B Tactical Array SONAR (TACTAS) is a passive towed array system which provides the ability to detect, classify, and track a large number of submarine contacts at increased ranges. TACTAS is a component sensor of the AN/SQQ-89(V)6 ASW Combat System, and provides significant improvements in passive detection and localization, searching throughout 360 degrees at tactical ship speeds. Processing of complex TACTAS data is performed by the largest computer program assembly ever developed for surface ship anti-submarine warfare.

Meteorology and Oceanography Center Detachment TACTAS support products describe oceanographic and acoustic conditions (using range dependent models) in the prosecution area for towed array ships tasked by CTF-69 for ASW operations. This message is provided when own ship Sonar In-situ Mode Assessment System (SIMAS) or the Mobile Environmental Team’s Mobile Oceanographic Support System MOSS) are not available. It is tailored to the specific towed array carried onboard. The message is transmitted prior to the start of a prosecution and daily thereafter or as requested.

The SQR-19 for PN FFGS may also be upgraded to further configuration which will provide enhanced capability.

SH-60B could most likely be PN answer for FFG LAMPS.

The SH-60B is designed
to operate as an integral fighting unit aboard specifically configured OLIVER HAZARD PERRY (FFG 7) class Guided Missile Frigates, SPRUANCE (DD 963) class Destroyers, ARLEIGH BURKE Flight IIA Guided Missile Destroyers, class Guided Missile Destroyers and TICONDEROGA (CG 47) class Guided Missile Cruisers. What makes the SH-60B different from other helicopters (such as the Army's BLACKHAWK) is its capability to fully integrate with LAMPS capable warships. The Light Airborne Multipurpose System (LAMPS) is part of a complete weapon (ship/air) system.
The SH-60B has a large suite of electronic sensors including radar, electronic support measures (ESM), forward looking infrared (FLIR), and passive/active underwater acoustic devices (sonobouys). All of this equipment is networked into a centralized tactical computer allowing the aircraft to act as a distant and elevated platform for sensors, remote classification/detection, and weapon delivery. All of the information gathered by aircraft sensors are passed back to the ship via a high speed digital radio signal. Personnel located in the ship's Combat Information Center (CIC) can not only view the "downlinked" information in real time, but can also control many of the helicopter's systems remotely. This system extends the ship's sensor, tactical control and attack capabilities while minimizing the risk of counterattack or detection by an enemy.

SH-60B Aircraft prior to BUNO 162349 are capable of the antiship surveillance and targeting (ASST) and ASW roles only. Effective with BUNO 162349 and subsequent, LAMPS MK III are equipped to employ the Mk 2 Mod 7 Penguin missile. LAMPS MK III equipped with the missile can be used in the additional role of ASUW attack. This recent SH-60B modification incorporated the ability to carry the AGM-119B Penguin missile, giving the Seahawka potent surface strike capability. When used in an ASUW mission, the aircraft provides a mobile, elevated platform for observing, identifying, and localizing threat platfoms beyond the parent ship's radar and/or electronic support measure (ESM) horizon. When a suspected threat is detected, classification and targeting data is provided to the parent ship via the datalink for surface-to-surface weapon engagement. Penguin missile equipped aircraft may conduct independent or coordinated attack, dependent upon the threat and tactical scenario. The Penguin is launched at a surface target acquired on the helicopter's radar. Once launched it becomes a "fire-and-forget" weapon which automatically homes in on its target. The Global Positioning System has also become standard equipment on most SH-60Bs. Some LAMPS MK III Seahawks already carry Hellfire missiles and night vision goggles. In addition, funding has been allocated to retrofit all SH-60Bs in the HSL community with forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensors.

There are two data link antennas--one forward and one aft on the underside of the aircraft. The search radar antenna is also located on the underside of the aircraft. Other antennas (UHF/VHF, HF, radar altimeter, TACAN, ESM, sonobuoy receivers, doppler, ADF, IFF, and GPS) are located at various points on the helicopter.

The left inboard, left outboard, and right weapon pylons accommodate BRU-14/A weapon/stores racks. Fittings for torpedo parachute release lanyards are located on the fuselage aft of each weapon pylon. Effective on BUNO 162349 and subsequent, the left and right inboard pylons have wiring and tubing provisions for auxiliary fuel tanks. All pylons have wiring provisions to accommodate the MK 50 torpedo. The left outboard weapon pylon can accommodate a missile launch assembly (MLA) which is used to mount the MK 2 MOD 7 Penguin air-to-surface missile.

The magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) towed body and reeling machine are mounted on a faired structure that extends from the forward tail-cone transition section on the right side of the aircraft. It is positioned above and aft of the right weapon pylon. The sonobuoy launcher is located on the left side of the aircraft above the left weapon pylon. The sonobuoy launcher is loaded from ground level outside the aircraft. Sonobuoys are pneumatically launched laterally to the left of the aircraft.

The airborne RAST system main probe and external cargo hook are on the bottom fuselage centerline, just aft of the main rotor center line. Fuel service connections, for both gravity and pressure refueling, are located on the left side of the aircraft aft of the weapon pylons. Dual-engine water wash is manifolded from a single-point selector valve connector on the left side of the aircraft above the sensor operator's (SO) window.

The long strokes of both main and tail wheel oleos are designed to dissipate high-sink-rate landing energy. Axle and high-point tie downs are provided at each main gear. Fuselage attachments are provided above the tail gear for connection to the RAST tail-guide winch system allowing aircraft maneuvering and straightening aboard ship and for tail pylon tie down. Emergency flotation bags are installed in the stub wing fairing of the main landing gear on both sides of the aircraft.


The cabin is arranged with the SO station on the left. facing forward. Most of the components of the avionics system are physically located in the SO console rack, situated aft of the ATO's seat, and in the mission avionics rack (MAR), situated aft of the pilot's seat. The SO console contains the necessary controls and indicators for the SO to perform the missions of antisurface warfare (ASUW) and antisubmarine warfare (ASW). To the right of the SO station seat is a seat which accommodates an instructor or, if desired, an additional passenger. The primary passenger seat is on the aft cabin bulkhead, located on the right side. The hoist controls and hover-trim panel are located adjacent to the cabin door. The cargo hook hatch is located forward of the RAST probe housing.

Another interesting element to the subject.

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/data/assets/ms2/pdf/AN_SQQ-89A%28V%2915_productcard.pdfThe AN/SQQ-89 was designed from the earliest variants to be fully integrated with the Aegis Combat System, Vertical Launch ASROC (VLA), and Over-The-Side Torpedoes.

As indicated in above sources, PN FFG will be upgraded with anti-submarine missiles. The most likely choice is the VL RUM-139 ASROC meaning VLS MK41 will be installed for this purpose.

 

[Babur Han]

@Growler

It's a right Step for PN to go for Genesis Upgrade, this would enhance the Capabillitys of Perry FFG in Order to provide limited AAW Capabillity. 4 PN Perry FFG should recieve a more extensive Upgrade in which MK-13 get replaced by an 8 - Cell MK-41 VLS. The MK-41 launcher is capable to launch ESSM, which are capable to engage Supersonic Threats.

PN should try to get ESSM !

 

[Myth_buster_1]

@Growler

It's a right Step for PN to go for Genesis Upgrade, this would enhance the Capabillitys of Perry FFG in Order to provide limited AAW Capabillity. 4 PN Perry FFG should recieve a more extensive Upgrade in which MK-13 get replaced by an 8 - Cell MK-41 VLS. The MK-41 launcher is capable to launch ESSM, which are capable to engage Supersonic Threats.

PN should try to get ESSM !

ESSM will require VLS-41 at additional cost while SM-2 can utilized with already existing system MK-13 without any additional cost which is very important for Pakistan. The another advantage SM-2 gives is its long range compared to ESSM so that airborne threats such as MPA, Fighter aircrafts on anti-ship role etc can be effectively engaged at long distance.
SM-2 Block IIIA that Australia has acquired for its FFGs has a range of 160+ KM. The SM-2 block IIIB has dual seekers the RF and IR and can engaged surface targets as well.

 

[Babur Han]

From a realistic Point of View, I doubt that US would provide SM-2 to Pakistan.

 

[Myth_buster_1]

From a realistic Point of View, I doubt that US would provide SM-2 to Pakistan.

If US can provide 500 AMRAAM AIM-120C5 I am sure US will provide SM-2 at request as well.

 

[Babur Han]

If US can provide 500 AMRAAM AIM-120C5 I am sure US will provide SM-2 at request as well.

I hope they provide SM-2 to PAK.

 

[cabatli_53]

A Picture from Genesis !!!

 

[Kompromat]

Would we be able to Integrate Babur-N on these Boats ?

 

[Myth_buster_1]

Would we be able to Integrate Babur-N on these Boats ?

Most probably not because its a American platform and a permission is required to do so. IMO the most likely platform for Naval Babur would be a heaver version of F-22P that we will get after completion of 4th F-22P currently being assembled in Karachi.

 

[Myth_buster_1]

The FFG air surveillance radar is a very long range radar with 400+KM range and the A(V)1 configuration provides enhanced capabilities and utilizes ESSM and SM-2 block IIIA very effectively.

http://www.thalesgroup.com/assets/0...1126-496c-90ac-65100a132d84.pdf?LangType=2057FFG UPGRADE
Air search radar AN/SPS-49(V)4 radar to the A(V)1
configuration provides:

• Automatic target detection
• Improved waveform and signal
processing for low altitude/small
radar cross section (RCS) targets
• Coherent side lobe cancellation
giving considerable electronic
protection capability
• Two scan threat alerts
• Improved reliability.


Air surveillance capability

• The long-range air surveillance,
target indication and Automatic
Detect and Track (ADT) functions
are upgraded
• The AN/SPS 49A(V)1 long-range
air surveillance radar provides
improved low elevation small
target performance and increased
detection range
• The Electro Optical Tracking System
(EOTS) is integrated into the combat
system and provides a new fire
control channel
• The Electronic Support (ES) function
is replaced by a modern high
performance system.

 

[cabatli_53]

Genesis

Consol Technology

 

[Myth_buster_1]

IMO the SPS-49 A(V)1 configuration from original SPS-49 V2 is very inexpensive up gradation and it could well be part of 78 million dollar refurbishment plan. The A(V)1 fallowed by A(V)2 are the latest configuration of SPS-49 family while the USN AEGIS Cruisers are using V8 configuration.
In 1997 14 million dollars contract was awarded to Raytheon for configuration of 12 SPS-49V radars to A(V)2 standard at a cost of only 14 million dollars.

Technical Data
Metric US
Dimensions
Antenna
SPS-49(V)1
Weight: 1,456 kg 3,210 lb
SPS-49(V)5
Weight: 1,425 kg 3,165 lb
Dimensions: 7.3 x 4.3 cm 24 x 14.2 ft
Rotating clearance (diameter): 8.7 m 28.4 ft
Below deck weight
SPS-49(V)1: 6,255 kg 13,791 lb
SPS-49(V)5: 6,325 kg 14,004 lb
Characteristics
SPS-49(V)1
Power: 280 kW peak
10 kW average
Frequency: 851 to 942 MHZ
Pulse width: 125 µsec
PRF: 280/800/1000 pps
Range: 250 nm
Altitude limit: 150,000 ft
Beam: 3.3° X 9°
Polarization: Horizontal
MTBF: +300 hr
SPS-49(V)5
Power: 360 kW peak
13 kW average
Frequency: 850 to 942 MHZ (fixed or agile)
Pulse width: 125 µsec (83:1 compression) or 2 µsec
Minimum range: 0.5 nm
Range accuracy: 0.03 nm
Scan rate: 6 or 12 rpm
Azimuth beamwidth: 3.4°
Azimuth accuracy: 0.5°
MTBF: >600 hr
MTTR: <0.5 hr
Mechanical stabilization: ± 25° roll
IFF antenna: AS-2188 mounted on beam




Design Features. The SPS-49(V) is an all solid-state 2D search radar with a klystron final amplifier. The antenna is stabilized relative to the horizon, making low-altitude detection possible in most sea states. True or relative antenna azimuth information is provided to the ship’s radar switchboard in one-speed synchro format together with time-aligned video and trigger information. This can be distributed throughout the ship. The antenna is mechanically stabilized.

The system includes automatic target detection using pulse Doppler techniques and clutter maps to enhance target detection in a clutter environment. It has a state-of-the-art electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM) capability as well as up-to-date adaptive Digital MTI (DMTI) and Constant False Alarm Rate (CFAR) receivers for reliable detection in clutter conditions. It is compatible with standard shipboard displays.

Every production system undergoes a minimum of 150 hours of continuous testing in a shipboard simulated environmental chamber. This accelerated maturing of each system helps eliminate failures once the system is deployed.

The double curved antenna reflector provides 28.5 dB gain with csec² shaping and low sidelobes. Line-of- sight stabilization keeps the antenna beam aligned with the horizon. A characteristic fan-shaped feed horn is underslung in front of an open-mesh, orange-peel parabolic antenna. The fully coherent, solid-state driver and klystron amplifier chain provide the peak power. Stability is emphasized for improved pulse Doppler processing. It can be PRF staggered and is frequency agile.



A triple-conversion receiver provides image rejection and freedom from spurious responses. Two complete channels are provided for the main and sidelobe blanking channels. The radar features built-in redundancy switches so the sidelobe channel can be substituted for the main channel in case of failure. Dispersive delay lines are used in both channels to generate and receive the chirp pulse compression signal. A new state-of-the-art, crystal-controlled stable frequency synthesizer is used for frequency stability and allows instantaneous random frequency selection. There is a four-loop coherent sidelobe canceler system.

The signal processor receives main and sidelobe channel inputs, digitizing them and feeding into sidelobe blanking and interference cancelers. The main channel is processed to provide clutter suppression in a five flight information region (FIR) filter pulse Doppler processor with false alarm control. This is followed by the provision of high-resolution clutter maps, video integration and detection thresholding. The output is usually made up of digital target reports. An optional Track-While-Scan processor can be added. There is also automatic on-line fault monitoring and fault isolation.

The Radar Set Control allows for manual selection of the radar operating mode, scan rate, emission controls, ECCM features and fault monitoring. Normal operation is from a set in the Combat Information Center, although a functionally identical unit is part of the equipment in the radar room.

The SPS-49(V) search radar was upgraded under the Navy Radar Surveillance Equipment program, PE#0604508N. The SPS Improvement Program project sought to improve the quality and reliability of SPS radar systems, including the SPS-49(V). Plans included development of a Medium PRF Upgrade (MPU), the development of tracker enhancements for the automatic detection and tracking (ADT) variant, and the resolution of production and technical problems. The Navy’s SPS improvement efforts have been moved to PE#0604755N, Ship Self Defense, which does not currently address specific SPS-49 efforts.

Many improvements were tied to the New Threat Upgrade Combat System, which is an anti-air warfare program designed to counter the latest missile threats. The program addressed three principal components: improvements to the SPS-48(V) and, as previously indicated, SPS-49(V) search radars, including the addition of the SYS-2(V) to integrate the outputs of the radar to a ship’s overall weapons control system; engagement system modifications; and a new SM-2 (ER) Block II missile.

Operational Characteristics. The SPS-49(V) can acquire fast targets at altitudes up to 150,000 feet in clutter, bad weather, and active or passive countermeasures environments. The radar’s narrow beam and line-of-sight horizon-stabilized capabilities provide excellent low-altitude target acquisition in all sea states.

The SPS-49(V) provides range and bearing data as a backup to a 3D radar. Aboard CG-47 class guided missile cruisers, the SPS-49(V) is tied into the AEGIS weapon system as a supplement for the ship’s SPY-1 radar for target detection and attack functions.

Improvements have concentrated on efforts to improve the way ships use the data from all of its sensors, fusing more effective own-ship and Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) information into a comprehensive situational awareness for all ships in a battle group.
Variants/Upgrades


There are seven variants of the original SPS-49 to meet individual platform requirements. The most common are:

SPS-49(V)1 is the original system carried by the Perry class frigates.

SPS-49(V)2 is the New Threat Upgrade version for cruisers.

SPS-49(V)3 is a Canadian variant with an embedded tracker. It is carried by the Halifax class cruisers.

SPS-49(V)5 provides enhanced ECCM processing and automatic target detection capability. This version has a higher peak power, 360 kW.

SPS-49(V)6/7 also possess an automatic target and detection capability and is installed aboard AEGIS- equipped platforms.

SPS-49A(V)1, Medium PRF Upgrade (MPU). The MPU improvement to the SPS-49(V) doubled the range and improved performance against small targets in sea
clutter. It also enhanced performance in an electronic countermeasures environment. Innovations included new wave forms and signal processing coupled with improved subclutter visibility for increased detection of small, fast targets near or over land.

The AS-4305A/U lightweight antenna subassembly is being introduced for monopulse IFF operations for add-on installation on the SPS-48E and SPS-49(V) surveillance radar antenna groups. It was developed as part of the OE-374/SPS-67(V) Antenna Group development. It features a lightweight honeycomb-laminate construction. The system has completed operational testing on the SPS-49(V).
Program Review


Background. The SPS-49(V) was first operational on the first Oliver Hazard Perry class frigate in 1977. During FY78, Developmental and Operational testing was completed and the ATD effort initiated. The identification, friend or foe (IFF) antenna development began in FY79. R&D efforts in FY80 continued work on automatic target detection for the SPS-49(V) radar.

In FY81, land-based testing of the SPS-49(V) ADT began. During FY82, SPS-49(V) ATDM development was completed, as was land-based testing. The first phase of at-sea operational testing of the automatic target detection modification (ATDM) was completed. During FY83, SPS-49(V) ATDM operational testing ended. In FY84, development of the wideband solid-state transmitter for the SPS-49(V) began. Raytheon was awarded a US$76 million contract in May 1984 from (then) Paramax Electronics Inc for the Canadian Halifax class frigate program.

During FY86, the Navy commissioned six ships that would be equipped with the SPS-49(V) radar. The Radar Surveillance Equipment program’s SPS improvement project saw the continuation of development of a wideband solid-state transmitter, and the development of an integrated automatic detection and tracking (IADT) capability for the FFG-7 Perry class frigates. In FY88, the Navy investigated the development of low sidelobe antennas for the SPS-49(V) along with other possible upgrades.

The Navy completed evaluating the Medium PRF Upgrade (MPU) in FY91. In January 1994, a solicitation for engineering and technical support for the development of the MPU was released. In addition, improvements to the Aegis ADT variant and to the CEC and Ship Self Defense System (SSDS) programs were developed. It would be a three-year contract.

By early 1994, an estimated two pre-production units had been built for evaluation and testing. These upgrades are slated for DDG-93, CV/CVN, Amphibious Assault, AEGIS cruisers and FFG-7 class ships.

In December 1994, the US Naval Systems Command awarded Raytheon Equipment Division a production contract for US$48 million to definitize a previously awarded letter contract to produce the next-generation long-range air surveillance radar, a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract for the current-generation surveillance radar, and modification kits and spares. Raytheon would produce the first production unit of the next-generation SPS-49A(V)1 radar; two SPS-49(V)5 radars for Taiwan under the FMS program; nine MPU modification kits; and spares for the US, Taiwan and Canada.

In February 1995, the Navy announced that it intended to solicit five MPU kits, two SPS-49A(V)1 Test Fixtures, MPU spares, tech-manual revisions, and technical documentation and data. The requirement contained an option for four MPU kits, spares, integration and data. The contract was awarded in November.

A July 1996 solicitation notice was issued for an estimated two SPS-49A(V)2 radars, three SPS-49A(V)1 mod kits, three SPS-49A(V)2 mod kits, an SPS-49A(V)1 to SPS-49A(V)2 conversion kit, manufacturing production start-up, field engineering services and support, a technical data package, technical documentation, technical manuals, item orders and data. Also solicited was an FY98 option for five SPS-49A(V)2 mod kits, along with ancillary support and interim spares.

In February 1997, the Navy announced a requirement for SPS-49A(V)1 radar modification kits and applicable support effort items including interim and INCO spares, field engineering services, item orders and associated technical data for use in FY97 through FY99. The FY97 through FY99 requirements were for both mod kits and applicable support effort/items. Twelve mod kits and applicable support items would be needed in FY97, seven in FY98, and six in FY99.

In 1998, Australia embarked on a significant upgrade to its FFG-7 frigates. Although many of the ships’ systems will be replaced, the SPS-49(V) air search radars installed on the ships will be retained.

Volume Surveillance Radar. The US Navy released a May 13, 1997 Commerce Business Daily Research and Development Sources Sought announcement for concept papers for a new fleet Volume Surveillance Radar (VSR) from companies qualified to design, construct and test the VSR. The concept paper would be followed a April 15, 1997, industry briefing at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL).

The VSR would replace the SPS-48(V) and SPS-49(V) series radars on non-AEGIS ships. One of the new radar’s missions will be to track threats such as aircraft, missiles, ultra-light air vehicles (UAVs) and helicopters with rapid hand-off to engagement systems. Other missions would include situational awareness and air traffic control, IFF and fire finding. These goals were considered desirable, if not a cost driver.

The tentative radar coverage requirement is 360° degrees in azimuth, 70° in elevation, and 120,000 feet in height, and with an instrumented range of 250 nautical miles. The VSR would have to be capable of operating in a littoral environment contaminated by land, sea, precipitation, bird, large discrete and other clutter as well as by hostile radiated signals.

Guidelines for radar supportability were a mean time between failure (MTBF) goal of 5,000 hours, with full built-in-test down to the LRU level with local maintenance and radar set control panel. It would have to be Battle Force Tactical Training (BFTT) system compatible and supported by minimal manning. Ruggedized commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) equipment should be used where possible and documentation and logistics would have to meet a tailored MIL-STD. Flexibility would be a key issue, and the largest anticipated antenna size and weight would be needed so the effect on ship construction could be determined. Modular construction to accommodate a changing COTS environment would be considered.

The Navy said it was interested in having an engineering development model of the VSR ready for installation by the year 2003 with production beginning in 2005, with a cost goal of US$10 million per system (in FY97 dollars).

On February 4, 1999, the USS Arthur W. Radford collided with a Saudi Arabian container ship off the Virginia coast. The Radford was calibrating the instrumentation for the composite mast it will be testing. There was significant damage. Although the Radford is not directly involved in the VSR program, some of its findings on composite mast/ship radar cross-section technology would be used by Navy planners to develop and evaluate concepts and requirements for the volume surveillance radar program. A significant delay in resuming the tests could impact the VSR schedule.
Funding

US FUNDING

FY98 FY99 FY00(Req) FY01(Req)

QTY AMT QTY AMT QTY AMT QTY AMT

Procurement (USN)

SPS-49(V) - 12.8 - 1.0 - 2.2 - -

All US$ in US millions.
Recent Contracts

(Contracts over US$5 million)
Award
Contractor ($ millions) Date/Description
Raytheon 49.6 Apr 1994 – FFP contract for production of SPS-49 radars and auxiliary hardware. Combines purchases for USN (53.14%), Taiwan (29.75%), and Canada (17.11%). Completed Aug 1997. (N00024-94-C-5614)
Raytheon 9.4 Nov 1995 – Modification of previous contract for production of five MPU kits and two SPS-49A(V)1 test fixtures. Contains an option for four MPU kits plus spares, integration, and data. Completed March 1999. (N00024-94-C-5614)
Raytheon 14.1 Apr 1997 – FFP letter contract for 12 SPS-49A(V)1 modification kits with integration as well as field engineering service support. To be completes Jan 2000. (N00024-97-C-5200)
Raytheon 9.1 Dec 1997 – Basic ordering agreement for repair parts for the Sidewinder Missile, SPS-49 Radar System, NATO Sea-Sparrow, and WSC-6 Communications System. Completed Dec 1997. (N00104-93-G-A050, Order 0004)
Raytheon 8.7 Dec 1997 – Time and materials contract for repair parts for the Sidewinder Missile, SPS-49 Radar System, NATO Sea-Sparrow, and WSC-6 Communications System. Completed Dec 1998. (N00104-98-G-A400)

Timetable
Month Year Major Development
1975 Advanced version evaluated
1977 Enters service
1981 SPS-49(V) radar improvement program begun as part of New Threat Upgrade Program
1982 First phase of at-sea operational testing of SPS-49(V) automatic target detection modification completed
1983 Operational testing completed. Production approval given for SPS-49(V) automatic target detection modifications
1984 Development of wideband solid-state transmitters for SPS-49(V) begun
FY87 Competitive development of SPS-49(V) solid-state transmitter begun
FY88 Full-scale engineering development of solid-state transmitter begun
Mar 1988 Westinghouse and Raytheon awarded contracts for Phase 1 of solid-state transmitter (SSTX) program
FY89 Full-scale development of SSTX discontinued
FY91 MPU evaluation completed
FY93 MPU pre-production start, testing begun
FY99 End of current MPU contract
2003 VSR engineering development model ready to install
2003 Possible VSR production start
2040 Expected life of SPS-48E in the Fleet
Worldwide Distribution

Australia. The SPS-49(V)2 is standard fit on the country’s FFG-7 class frigates.

Canada. The SPS-49(V)5 forms part of the electronics fit for the Canadian Patrol Frigate class, of which two batches of six ships have been ordered. The first ship was delivered in early 1990. The second batch of six was delivered by 1996.

New Zealand. The SPS-49(V) is carried on ANZAC frigates.

Spain. The SPS-49(V) is standard fit onboard the country’s FFG-7 class frigates.

Taiwan. The SPS-49(V) is being fitted onboard the modified FFG-7 class frigates being built by the Taiwanese. Present planning calls for a total of eight.

Thailand. Carries the radar on its Type 25T class ships.

US. The following ships are equipped with the SPS-49(V): all active aircraft carriers; the CG-47 Ticonderoga class (equipped with the SPS-49(V)6, although later models may be equipped with the (V)7 variant) cruisers; DD-963 Spruance class; FFG-7 Perry class; LHD-1 Wasp class amphibious assault ships; and LSD-41 Whidbey Island/Modified Whidbey Island class dock landing ships.
Forecast Rationale


The SPS-49(V) is a rotating, 2D search radar that provides a ship additional defense time by acquiring small, fast-moving targets at long range. It is fitted to a variety of large warships, including active aircraft carriers, the CG-47 Ticonderoga class AEGIS cruisers, the FFG-7 Perry class destroyers and LSD class landing ships. It will not be carried by the LPD-17 next-generation amphibious ship.

Few SPS-49(V)-equipped ships were built past the mid-1990s, but there is an ongoing upgrade program to improve existing systems and extend service life.

The Medium PRF Upgrade helps meet the need for protection from small, low-flying missile threats, increasing the sensitivity of the radar in detecting and tracking these low-observability threats in sea clutter and ECM environments. Although it is still based on older technology, the SPS-49 performs its job well.

The AEGIS radar is the prime sensor for the next-generation guided missile cruisers and destroyers. This eliminates the need for SPS-49(V) radars on these ships. Future combat ship designs will probably follow the sophisticated AEGIS concept; reducing the radar signature precludes the use of large, rotating antennas. The selection of the SPS-48E for the LPD-17 shows, however, that the Navy is not going to install AEGIS on ships that do not need this sophisticated a weapons control capability. But the SPS-49(V) was not selected for these ships, and is probably not going to be picked for other new construction vessels either.

The US requirement has been met with completed production contracts. Most navies interested in providing good anti-air surveillance systems have considered it for their fleets, but budget-induced slowdowns in shipbuilding have reduced the expected rate of procurement over the remainder of the reporting period.

The large number of units in service will support a significant spare and repair parts market though the turn of the century and beyond. An active improvements and upgrade effort can also be expected. Once proven and made available, the Medium PRF Upgrade could become a sought-after enhancement for those with the radars.

 

[Super Falcon]

in august we get one than other 6 when we get

 

[Myth_buster_1]

Source fas.org


wow. The SPS-49 radar has a instrumental range of 250 miles or 400 km and full range of 540 KM!
A big size target such as AEW or MPA can be detected at 350+km range.

 

[Myth_buster_1]

A question for turkish friends.

Did Turkey upgrade their SPS-49 radars? and how much does Smart-S 3d radar costs?