Romania to acquire four US Sentinel radars in $110 Million military sale.

On October 7, 2024, the U.S. State Department approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Romania involving Sentinel Radar Systems, valued at approximately $110 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency submitted the required certification to Congress for this sale, which includes four AN/MPQ-64 F1 Sentinel radar systems and various support components and services intended to enhance Romania's air surveillance capabilities as part of the NASAMS air defense system.
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The AN/MPQ-64 F1 Sentinel radar, produced by Raytheon, is a mobile, X-band, pulse Doppler radar that offers 360-degree coverage, target tracking, and identification with an acquisition range of up to 120 kilometers. (Picture source: Raytheon)

Romania’s request includes multiple non-Major Defense Equipment (non-MDE) items, such as IPS 250X High Assurance Internet Protocol Encryptors, KIV-77 Identification Friend-or-Foe (IFF) crypto appliqué with Mode 5 and Mode S capability, AN/PSN-13 Defense Advanced GPS Receivers with Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Modules (SAASM), and AN/PYQ-10 Simple Key Loaders. Additional elements cover classified software, command and control (C2) systems, communications and data supply systems, prime movers, equipment for repairs, and logistical support. The estimated package also encompasses spare parts, consumables, repair and return support, publications, technical documentation, training, and other associated logistics support, which will be provided by U.S. government personnel and contractors.

The AN/MPQ-64 F1 Sentinel radar, produced by Raytheon, is a mobile, X-band, pulse Doppler radar that offers 360-degree coverage, target tracking, and identification with an acquisition range of up to 120 kilometers. The system’s narrow “pencil beam” technology provides high-resolution, three-dimensional tracking data, compatible with NASAMS operations. This radar can track over 60 targets simultaneously while maintaining the ability to scan for new ones, which facilitates comprehensive situational awareness. Additionally, the radar incorporates an IFF system, helping reduce the likelihood of misidentification.

Some features of the Sentinel radar include its Electronic Counter-Countermeasures (ECCM) and a broad surveillance and tracking volume. It requires minimal personnel to operate, and its design allows for rapid deployment. With an approximate weight of 1,800 kilograms, the radar can be transported by terrain vehicles, helicopters, or installed on rooftops for extended range.

With an approximate weight of 1,800 kilograms, the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar can be transported by terrain vehicles, helicopters, or installed on rooftops for extended range. (Picture source: US DoD)

As an updated model within the NASAMS 2 system, the AN/MPQ-64 F1 provides modernization through commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) electronics, increasing detection range and enhancing the ability to track aerial threats such as subsonic cruise missiles and UAVs. These upgrades also include new signal processing units with improved analog-to-digital conversion, allowing more accurate radar control. The radar is equipped with an Exciter, a single unit oscillator operating within the X-band frequency, which enables better performance in cluttered environments. The modular transmitter setup supports scalability for increased range and system reliability, while the digital interface permits operator control over antenna functions.

The Sentinel radar system is designed for swift deployment, taking under 15 minutes to set up. It can operate effectively with a two-person crew and integrates smoothly with NASAMS for target data and missile guidance. The radar is mounted on a Mercedes G-Class 4x4 light tactical vehicle capable of speeds up to 138 kilometers per hour and a range of 800 kilometers. The radar’s tracking capabilities are instrumental in guiding systems like the AIM-120 AMRAAM through pre-launch targeting and midcourse updates.

The AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar, initially developed for the NASAMS air defense system, entered service in 1995 and has been widely utilized by the U.S. Army and allied forces. It operates on a rotating platform, delivering 360-degree coverage with a scan rate of 30 rotations per minute. The radar offers electronic countermeasure resistance, aiding its deployment with forward air defense units. It can function remotely from other components and transmit data via fiber-optic or radio networks. Through this sale, Romania seeks to enhance its air defense capabilities using a radar system recognized for its adaptable deployment options.

The radar’s tracking capabilities are instrumental in guiding systems like the AIM-120 AMRAAM through pre-launch targeting and midcourse updates. (Picture source: US DoD)