AFRL, Raytheon Test New Sensor for NASAMS Missile System

Defense News ,U.S :- The US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and Raytheon have proven that a new sensor for the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) works well. This test happened at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.

During the test, Raytheon used its special GhostEye MR sensor along with the US Air Force’s Air Defense Console and Battlespace Command and Control Center platforms. GhostEye MR gave a detailed picture of the air, helping the systems identify a target and choose the right response.

The sensor also helped NASAMS in stopping threats during the pretend engagements. AFRL Air Defense Program Manager Jim Simonds said, “This experiment showed that GhostEye MR is a good sensor for air and missile defense. The radar can be quickly set up and detect live targets accurately from longer distances, giving more time to make decisions.”

Raytheon confirmed that the three components worked as expected during the live scenario, especially in sharing information and relaying data. Raytheon Land & Air Systems President Tom Laliberty stated, “The team’s success shows that GhostEye MR can meet the needs of the US Air Force. Air bases worldwide are facing more advanced airborne threats, and this test is a big step towards having a good defense for air bases.”

This recent trial follows a base test in Norway in 2022, where Raytheon and partners demonstrated that NASAMS could intercept threats using Raytheon’s missiles and Kongsberg’s Fire Distribution Center.

In the past year, Raytheon got a $7-million contract to keep developing the GhostEye MR sensor for the US Department of Defense.