AN/APQ-181 radar (United States), AIRBORNE RADAR SYSTEMS
Type
Airborne Ground Mapping and Terrain-Following Radar (GMR/TFR).
Description
The AN/APQ-181, designed specifically for the Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, is a multimode radar system operating in the Ku-band (12.5 to 18 GHz). The radar features 21 separate modes for terrain-following and terrain-avoidance, navigation system updates, target search, location, identification and acquisition and weapon delivery. The APQ-181 is a completely redundant modular system which employs two electronically scanned antennas, sophisticated software modes and advanced Low Probability of Intercept (LPI) techniques that match the aircraft's overall stealth qualities. The LPI approach used is understood to be a collection of individually effective design and operating techniques that, when integrated, greatly diminish the effectiveness of radio frequency emitter location sensor systems. LPI techniques include unique performance features built-in to the hardware and operated under radar mode control. To meet reliability specifications and provide for operational redundancy, the APQ-181 provides two separate radar sets, each consisting of five Line-Replaceable Units (LRUs): antenna, transmitter, Radar Signal Processor (RSP), Radar Data Processor (RDP) and receiver/exciter, with all but the antennas able to function for either or both radar units. These LRUs weigh 955 kg and have a volume of 1.485 m3. The LRUs are installed in the aircraft in three zones. Each 260 kg antenna is mounted behind a large radome some 8 ft outboard of the aircraft centreline, just below the flying wing's leading edges. Antenna locations are marked by large, slightly darker, rectangular patches visible on the underside of the aircraft. Each antenna has a large unobstructed field of view
| The complete article appears in the following publication: | |
|---|---|
| Publication Title | Jane's Avionics |
| Publication date | Dec 27, 2007 |
| Section | AIRBORNE RADAR SYSTEMS |
| Publication synopsis | Containing detailed information on airborne electronic equipment for both military and civilian aircraft, Jane's Avionics ensures that you stay up-to-date with the latest developments and new production lines. Contractor and manufacturer indices supply you with the information you require to make all your procurement, training and commercial decisions. Each entry is arranged by country of manufacture and contains information on function, development history, technical description, specifications, operational status and contractor, supplying you with a detailed system assessment. Colour images are used wherever relevant to facilitate quick assimilation and comparison of important design and layout characteristics. |
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