The US Navy is set to advance its capability in missile threat detection and tracking through the Future X-Band Radar (FXR) initiative, which marks a significant upgrade from the aging AN/SPQ-9B radar system. This step involves soliciting proposals from contractors to design, develop, and test Engineering Development Models for the FXR, as well as to provide several low-rate initial production units. The anticipated timeline for this work spans from 2026 to 2033.
The contract structure will feature a combination of cost-plus-incentive-fee, cost-plus-fixed-fee, and fixed-price incentive arrangements to facilitate various stages, including development, engineering support, and procurement. Additionally, the contract will incorporate provisions for spare parts, data rights, and ancillary costs, indicating a comprehensive approach to developing this critical technology.
To qualify for consideration, contractors must possess a top secret facility clearance along with eligibility for sensitive compartmented information. Furthermore, only US-based entities or subsidiaries will be entertained for this opportunity, reflecting the Navy’s emphasis on national security and operational integrity.
The FXR is intended to supplant the decades-old AN/SPQ-9B radar that has served across numerous platforms, including amphibious ships, destroyers, cruisers, and aircraft carriers since the 1990s. Designed as a high-resolution X-band radar, the FXR will excel in demanding electronic warfare environments, ensuring rapid target acquisition and precise tracking. This capability is vital for both defensive and offensive operations at sea.
Key features of the FXR include its ability to seamlessly integrate with existing naval combat systems and sensor networks, bolstering situational awareness and facilitating coordinated responses among naval fleets. The choice of X-band technology, operating at higher frequencies, allows for superior resolution and sensitivity. This is crucial for detecting and tracking smaller and faster threats, such as anti-ship cruise missiles, low-flying aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
According to Said Darham, lead engineer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, having an X-band radar prototype tested in a naval-like environment will provide invaluable insights for current and future sensor initiatives, thereby reinforcing the Navy’s technological edge in maritime defense.
