The EMPAR multifunction radar: the answer to ship sensor needs

EMPAR (European Multifunction phased Array Radar) is ct passive multifuncti on radar that can simultaneously perform surveillance. target indication, t arget tracking and missile direction. The design of EMPAR has been specific ally addressed to satisfy the requirement of functional integration with th e ship defence missile systems. In particular EMPAR's search and track perf ormance fully meets the requirements of Self Defence, Nearby Ship Defence a nd Medium Range Defence. The EMPAR radar is the result of collaboration bet ween Alenia Difesa (Italy) and GEC-Marconi Radar and Defence Systems (UK) s ince 1986 (these two companies have subsequently combined to form Alenia Ma rconi Systems). This paper describes the EMPAR mission and the sort of targ ets It must search for and track A description of EMPAR then follows and re sults of tests and trials are discussed. Finally, the way ahead is discusse d.