New Groundmaster 400A Radar System Deployed to Monitor Dutch Airspace

A new radar system, the Groundmaster 400a by Thales, has been deployed to monitor Dutch airspace until the new SMART-L radar station in Herwijnen is operational.

The Groundmaster 400a replaces the Medium Power Radar, decommissioned in March after 52 years of service, and follows the mobile NATO radar, in service for the past four months, the Netherlands defense ministry said in an official release.

The SMART-L radar, operational in Frisian Wier since 2021, has broader capabilities, including the ability to detect and track ballistic missiles at longer distances. The Groundmaster 400a, while technically comparable, is more compact and transportable.

The GM400a is designed for conventional air threats and can be deployed at any location, enhancing radar coverage over the Netherlands. Both radar systems enable Dutch Defense to monitor NATO airspace and guide military air operations. These radars also support civilian entities such as the police and investigative services.