Argentina’s Defense Ministry unveils RPA-170M high-tech radar.

On December 4, 2023, Argentina inaugurated its fourth Radar Primario Argentino (RPA) station, located in the city of Mercedes, Corrientes Province. The opening ceremony was led by Defense Minister Jorge Taiana, in the presence of Air Force Chief Brigadier General Xavier Isaac, and representatives from Invap, the renowned Argentine technology and innovation company.
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RPA-170M is a state-of-the-art 3D medium-range air defense system. (Picture source: Argentina MoD)

This new installation is part of a broader initiative, the National System of Aerospace Surveillance and Control (Sinvica), aimed at strengthening national sovereignty and security. Minister Taiana emphasized the significance of this event, describing it as an "important act of sovereignty" and reminding that "controlling and monitoring our territory is an essential responsibility."

The radar in focus, the RPA-170M, is a state-of-the-art 3D medium-range air defense system. It stands out for its rapid deployment capability, requiring less than 30 minutes for operational setup with just a two-person team. The RPA-170M can function either autonomously as a complete command, control, and communications center or be operated remotely.

Technically, the RPA-170M is remarkable. Operating in the L-band (between 1 and 2 GigaHertz), this radar has an instrumented range of 240 miles (approximately 440 kilometers). It incorporates significant improvements over previous models, especially in terms of fault prevention, maintenance, signal generation, and target acquisition and tracking capabilities.

Additionally, the RPA-170M is equipped with a suite of countermeasures to protect against electronic attacks, including reduced side lobes, a low infrared signature of the antenna, and advanced frequency and signal management. These features make it particularly suited for operation in various and sometimes adverse operational conditions.

The new Mercedes station joins the already operational stations in Río Grande, Trelew, and Villaguay and will soon be complemented by a fifth station in Tostado, Santa Fe Province. The establishment of these radar stations demonstrates Argentina's commitment to ensuring extensive and effective coverage of its national territory, thereby enhancing its defense and surveillance capacity in a strategically important region.