The U.S. Navy has awarded Harris Corporation a $113 million contract to upgrade the fleet’s AN/SPS-48E radars, according to a Harris Corporation news release. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) awarded Harris an initial $39 million order under the contract, which also includes three one-year options.
Fire Controlman 2nd Class Stephen Dinsdale, left, observes as Fire Controlman 3rd Class Tamerlane Bastes demonstrates elements of the SPS-48E radar system aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman George M. Bell
The four-year contract upgrades the Navy’s primary long-range, 3D air defense radar used aboard its aircraft carriers and large-deck amphibious assault ships. Harris was awarded the contract under the Radar Obsolescence and Availability Recovery (ROAR) program to upgrade the current AN/SPS-48E to the more advanced AN/SPS-48G version, which employs a modern solid-state transmitter. The new radar will increase capability against more advanced threats as well as increase reliability and lower life-cycle costs.
“The SPS-48 radar provides an essential surveillance capability for the U.S. Navy, which faces growing and increasingly more complex threats,” said Rich Sorelle, president, Harris Electronic Warfare business unit. “The radar is expected to remain in operation through the year 2050, and Harris is committed to ensuring it remains effective and dependable throughout its service life.”