Swedish defense contractor Saab has secured a significant contract from the Swedish Armed Forces, valued at 1.4 billion Swedish kronor (approximately $144 million), to supply Giraffe 4A radar systems and associated services. The delivery of these advanced systems is slated for between 2026 and 2027, marking a notable enhancement in Sweden’s air and maritime surveillance capabilities.
The Giraffe 4A radar is a highly versatile multi-function system designed to track multiple targets simultaneously. Its applications are broad, covering air and maritime surveillance as well as military air traffic control. Saab emphasized that the Giraffe 4A will bolster the nation’s ground-based air surveillance infrastructure, highlighting its mobility and the ability to receive software updates that ensure ongoing modernization.
One of the standout features of the Giraffe 4A is its capability to detect and track a diverse array of airborne threats. This includes not only conventional faster targets, such as fast jets and supersonic missiles, but also more unconventional ones, like drones. Moreover, the system is adept at identifying rockets, artillery, mortars, and even signals from electronic jamming, making it a comprehensive tool for modern warfare.
The radar offers 360-degree coverage and can refresh target tracking data every second. In scenarios where a specific threat’s direction is known, the system can concentrate on that area, updating positions of danger up to eight times per second. With a detection range extending to 400 kilometers (248 miles), the Giraffe 4A provides extensive situational awareness.
Additionally, this radar system enhances ground-based air defense operations by delivering precise, rapidly updated target information that is particularly beneficial for very short- to medium-range defense systems.
The mobile variant of the Giraffe 4A is designed for quick deployment, as it can be set up by just two personnel in less than ten minutes, with dismantling taking under five minutes. This efficient setup makes it highly adaptable for various military operations. Furthermore, it is compatible with standard military transport aircraft, such as the C-130, A400M, and C-17, allowing for seamless transportation and deployment using conventional container handling systems.
This contract underscores Saab’s commitment to enhancing national defense capabilities and adapting to the evolving threats in the global security landscape.
