Brazil Acquires Two GM200 MM/A Radars from Thales.

The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has strengthened its aerial capabilities by acquiring Thales' Ground Master 200 Multi-mission All-in-one (GM200 MM/A) tactical air surveillance radars. This acquisition, facilitated by the Department of Airspace Control (DECEA) through the Airspace Control System Implementation Commission (CISCEA), is aimed at significantly improving Brazil's air surveillance and ground-based air defense (GBAD) operations. This announcement was made by Thales on June 17, 2024.
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The GM200 MM/A radar is distinguished by its tactical and mobile design. (Picture source: Thales)

The GM200 MM/A radar is distinguished by its tactical and mobile design, offering superior situational awareness for air surveillance as well as for GBAD operations up to Mid-Range Air Defence (MRAD). Equipped with Thales' unique 4D AESA dual-axis multi-beam technology, this radar provides unparalleled precision and extended range, capable of accurately detecting low, small, and slow targets, such as mini-drones.

Thales has a long-standing presence in Brazil, supported by its local subsidiary Omnisys, which will be responsible for all radar support and maintenance activities. This ensures the high availability and operational standards required by the Brazilian Air Force. Eric Huber, Vice President of Surface Radars at Thales, expressed pride in supporting Brazil’s air surveillance and sovereignty missions, emphasizing Thales' commitment to cutting-edge technology and premium local services.

The GM200 MM/A radars, designed for modern multi-mission air surveillance and GBAD missions, are among the most flexible on the market today. They provide radar operators with instant superior situational awareness and are equipped with next-generation 4D AESA dual-axis multi-beam technology, allowing flexibility in elevation and bearing. The software-defined radar is also ready for future upgrades to address evolving threats and changing operational doctrines.

The radars are highly transportable, fitting into a single autonomous 20-foot ISO standard container weighing less than 10 tons. They feature built-in lifting systems, enabling easy transport by road, rail, boat, helicopter, or tactical aircraft. Once on site, the radar can be deployed by just two people in under 15 minutes. The antenna, operating on an 8-meter mast with an integrated Power Generator Unit, can sustain over 24 hours of autonomous operation, ensuring uninterrupted missions. Additionally, the radar's cabin can integrate a Local Command and Control capability for up to two operators.

Major Brigadeiro Alexandre Arthur Massena Javoski, President of CISCEA, highlighted the significant contribution of the new GM200 MM/A radars to improving air navigation surveillance and security. He noted the high mobility and modern threat detection capabilities of these radars, reinforcing the Brazilian Air Force’s commitment to national sovereignty.

This acquisition consolidates Thales' position as a leader in the radar market in Brazil, adding to its existing installed base of over 100 Air Traffic Control (ATC) radars in the country. The integration of the GM200 MM/A radars within the 1st Communications and Control Group (1st GCC) underscores the ongoing collaboration between Thales and the Brazilian Air Force to enhance airspace protection.

The Ground Master 200 Multi-Mission (GM200 MM) family represents the latest in Thales’ medium-range ground radar technology, incorporating Thales’ 4D AESA dual-axis multi-beam technologies. With over 250 radars sold worldwide, the GM200 MM family is field-proven in more than 30 countries.

Thales’ 4D AESA radar family includes a scalable and upgradable antenna architecture, ensuring that the radars can evolve throughout their lifecycle to maintain operational capability against emerging threats. This family includes various models for different operational needs, from the GM200 MM to the Sea Fire and Ground Fire radars.

With this new acquisition, the Brazilian Air Force continues to modernize its capabilities, ensuring robust air defense and effective airspace control in response to contemporary threats.