Japan Tests Raytheon’s Radar & Targeting Systems on SeaGuardian Drone

Japan’s Coast Guard has concluded flight tests of MQ-9B SeaGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) fitted with Raytheon-made SeaVue Expanded Mission Capability (XMC) radar and AN/DAS-4 Multi-spectral Targeting System.

The tests were conducted last year between October 15 and November 10 in Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture, Japan, manufacturer of the MQ-9B RPA, announced today.

The tests validated the wide-area maritime surveillance systems support for the Japan Coast Guard to carry out missions for search and rescue, disaster response and maritime law enforcement.

The SeaVue XMC radar provides enhanced wide-area surveillance by identifying targets such as small maritime vessels. SeaVue MR delivers expanded capabilities including small-target detection at longer ranges and higher altitudes, and a software-defined digital architecture to add new functionality without changing hardware.

The DAS-4 sensor suite offers operators next-generation electro-optical surveillance in high-definition and full-motion video to identify and engage targets with pinpoint accuracy. The flight tests support the Japan Coast Guard’s policy on Strengthening Maritime Security System. The policy calls for modernized maritime technologies to protect Japan’s sovereignty.