|
Traditionally,
submarines only use radar for navigation in and out of port because
a high power RF transmission can compromise its ability to remain undetected.
However, with its low power output – up to 300W as opposed to
the 25kW of legacy submarine radar systems - SharpEye™ can significantly
reduce the probability of detection by ESM systems.
Due to the solid state technology at the heart of SharpEye™, it
is now possible, for the first time, to locate the X-band transceiver
downmast within the pressure hull, making use of the existing bulkhead
infrastructure and the existing external antenna, rotational drive and
waveguide connections. The downmast transceiver enclosure measures only
743 x 487 x 330mm.
Moreover, the Doppler processing of the radar returns, means it can
detect more targets, earlier and at a longer range. Delivering improvements
in sub-clutter visibility of approximately 30dB, SharpEye™ can
identify targets with a low Radar Cross Section (RCS), typically 0.5m2,
even in adverse weather conditions. A series of electronic filters enables
SharpEye™ to distinguish between targets of interest and sea and
rain clutter.
With its patented pulse sequence, SharpEye™ enables multiple users
to see the optimum picture simultaneously regardless of the radar range
scale in use at each display.
The SharpEye™ system can either be installed on new-build submarines
or retro-fitted to existing boats.
Mark Bown, Kelvin Hughes' Group Marketing Manager, commented: "Kelvin
Hughes has a long history of supplying naval radar and 27 of the world's
navies are currently operating SharpEye™ systems. We're delighted
that we have been able to take this major step forward in submarine
radar technology, ensuring submarines can now operate with a truly multipurpose
naval radar system, covering navigation, surface search and bi-directional
links to combat management systems." |
