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SAR/MTI MILSAR Radar Used For Detecting Drifting Mines in Black Sea at SAHA 2024.
At SAHA 2024 in Istanbul, Meteksan Defence introduced its state-of-the-art radar system, the MILSAR SAR/MTI, designed for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, suppression, and attack operations. This advanced radar, developed under the Turkish Defence Agency (SSB) project, marks a significant step forward in drone technology, offering multi-mode capabilities that enhance the operational efficiency of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), such as the Bayraktar TB2, Aksungur, and ANKA.
The system has been successfully deployed for detecting drifting mines in the Black Sea, a mission necessitated by the conflict between Ukraine and Russia (Picture source: Army Recognition)
MILSAR stands out for its ability to operate in all weather conditions, enabling drones to carry out reconnaissance and surveillance missions around the clock. The system integrates Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Moving Target Indicator (MTI) functionalities, allowing it to provide high-resolution images even in environments where electro-optical sensors are less effective, such as in fog, rain, or during night operations. This capability is particularly relevant for Türkiye, where cloud cover, in varying intensities, persists for more than half of the year. The synergy between MILSAR’s radar technology and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) systems significantly improves drones’ ability to conduct large-scale surveillance and precision strike operations.
One of MILSAR's key features is its versatility in both Stripmap and Spotlight modes, providing detailed imaging regardless of range. In Stripmap mode, the radar scans large areas, generating real-time images with resolutions as high as 30 centimeters, making it ideal for wide-area reconnaissance. In Spotlight mode, MILSAR offers focused, high-resolution images for precise target identification, even in low-visibility conditions. Its Ground Moving Target Indication (GMTI) mode enhances its ability to detect and track moving ground objects, while the Maritime Moving Target Indication (MMTI) and ISAR capabilities extend this functionality to the identification and monitoring of vessels at sea.
MILSAR's lightweight design (under 30 kg) and low power consumption make it suitable for a wide range of tactical and strategic platforms. Its integration with UAVs like the Bayraktar TB2, ANKA, and Aksungur is facilitated by its compatibility with standard 15-inch EO/IR sensor turrets. This allows operators to easily switch between EO/IR sensors and MILSAR within minutes, offering operational flexibility across various mission scenarios. Furthermore, Meteksan’s AKSON C-Band Data Link optimizes bandwidth for transmitting high-resolution images from UAVs to ground stations, improving mission efficiency.
MILSAR's proven performance extends beyond conventional military applications. The system has been successfully deployed for detecting drifting mines in the Black Sea, a mission necessitated by the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The radar's ability to detect and classify mines, even before completing its full research and development (R&D) phase, highlights its operational maturity and adaptability to emerging threats. Installed on the Aksungur UAV, MILSAR, in combination with EO/IR systems, provided critical intelligence for locating and identifying these mines. This example demonstrates the importance of sensor synergy, resulting in a significant increase in reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities.
MILSAR's versatility also extends to non-military applications, such as forest fire monitoring. Its ability to operate in adverse weather conditions and at night makes it a valuable tool for tracking fire progression and assessing post-fire damage. Meteksan continues to innovate, working on features like "Change Detection," which uses artificial intelligence to compare historical and current images, revealing differences. This functionality could be vital for detecting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or monitoring terrain changes caused by human activities.
Additionally, MILSAR’s compact size and lightweight design open up opportunities for international integration. For example, Pakistan, which has developed the Shahpar-1 and Shahpar-2 drones, could benefit from integrating MILSAR into its UAV platforms. MILSAR's low power consumption and proven combat performance with the Turkish Armed Forces would provide Pakistan’s military significant advantages in border surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike operations, particularly in challenging terrain and weather conditions.