OCCAR Successfully Completes Factory Acceptance Tests for 3rd Kronos GM HP Radar

The Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) has announced a major milestone for the Kronos GM HP radar program. On October 29-30, 2024, Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) were successfully conducted for the third Kronos GM HP radar at Leonardo’s facility in Fusaro, Italy. This advanced radar, a crucial element of the FSAF-PAAMS SAMP/T NG (Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain New Generation) system, demonstrated that it meets all required specifications, pushing the program closer to operational readiness.

Leonardo’s Kronos GM HP radar is a cutting-edge multifunctional radar designed for both air and missile defense. A marvel of modern military engineering, this radar system stands out due to its high-performance Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) antenna technology, which enables exceptional versatility and response speed in tracking and neutralizing threats. Leveraging advanced Gallium Nitride (GaN) components, the system ensures efficient power output and sensitivity, which translates to impressive detection ranges—extending up to 300 kilometers for air surveillance and over 250 kilometers for defensive operations.

One of the standout features of the Kronos GM HP is its ability to track multiple high-priority targets simultaneously, with engagement capabilities for over 30 targets at a time. The radar’s fast update rates, which are as low as one second for actively engaged threats, give it an edge in reacting to highly dynamic aerial environments. The system’s flexibility allows it to operate in both land and littoral (coastal) settings, making it adaptable for a variety of missions.

In terms of physical design, the radar is housed in a 20-foot ISO standard container, underscoring its tactical mobility. This compact and transportable setup allows the radar to be deployed within 15 minutes, even in unprepared sites, making it ideal for rapid-response scenarios. The radar system can also be easily integrated into various command and control networks, enhancing its operational utility. Its configuration even includes a redundancy option for continuous operation, with provisions for extra power generators and a command post in additional containers if required.

The FAT results have been met with optimism from OCCAR, which expressed confidence in the progress of the SAMP/T NG program. The ongoing collaboration between OCCAR, Leonardo, and EUROSAM (the consortium responsible for missile integration) underlines the strategic importance of this radar system, which will enhance air defense capabilities for both the Italian Army and Air Force starting in 2026. With these advancements, the Kronos GM HP remains a critical piece of Europe’s evolving defense architecture, designed to address complex air and missile threats.

The radar’s strategic importance is underscored by its role in the broader FSAF-PAAMS SAMP/T NG system, which is poised to provide enhanced defense coverage across multiple platforms, safeguarding vital airspace and infrastructure.

For more detailed specifications of the Kronos GM HP radar, you can visit Leonardo's product catalog.