South Korea Develops New Coastal Surveillance Radar System

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced today that the Coastal Surveillance Radar-II (GPS-240K) was officially deemed suitable for combat use as of Monday, June 3, 2024.

The system was developed in 30 months. The Coastal Surveillance Radar-II project, initiated in December 2022 and spearheaded by STX Engine, aims to replace the aging coastal surveillance radars that have been in service for over 25 years. Rigorous performance evaluations confirmed that the new radar system surpasses the required standards in key test areas, culminating in the Ministry of National Defense's final determination of its combat suitability.

This new radar features enhancements in detection capabilities and operability that distinguish it from its predecessors. The system boasts a 50 to 60 percent improvement in maximum detection range and target resolution, allowing for the detection and tracking of even small vessels from greater distances. Additionally, the radar can simultaneously track twice as many targets as the older systems, DAPA said in a statement.

Key features of the Coastal Surveillance Radar-II include its ability to monitor a variety of targets around the clock, every day of the year. This capability encompasses detecting clandestine smuggling operations, tracking small enemy vessels, and monitoring the movements of enemy landing forces.

The new radar also incorporates solid-state power amplifier (SSPA) technology, which offers higher power efficiency and a longer lifespan compared to the traditional traveling wave tube (TWT) radars. This simplifies the operation and maintenance of the system.

Mass production of the Coastal Surveillance Radar-II is slated to commence in 2025, with phased deployment to the military beginning in 2026 to replace the old equipment.