Space Centre Australia to Deploy HENSOLDT’s Air Surveillance Radars

HENSOLDT has signed a contract with Space Centre Australia (SCA) to supply two Air Surveillance Radar - Next Generation (ASR-NG) systems, along with a 20-year sustainment plan.

The deal is valued at around €20 million (approximately $30 million AUD).

Under the contract, HENSOLDT will deliver the two radars by the end of 2026, with maintenance services beginning in 2027.

The ASR-NG systems are used for long-range airspace monitoring, employing signal processing technology to filter out false signals, such as those from wind turbines. It can detect small aircraft, including ultralight gliders and large aircraft like passenger airliners. The ASR-NG detects targets ranging from 0.5m² to 10,000m² with a high probability of detection. The radar provides 3D air traffic monitoring within a 120 NM radius and up to 50,000 feet. The MSSR 2000 I secondary radar, integrated into the ASR-NG, improves aircraft identification using "Mode S" air traffic control standards.

Once the ASR-NG systems are deployed, Australia will operate 11 units, making it the largest user of ASR-NG systems globally.

Space Centre Australia plans to integrate these radars into its operations to enhance airspace management and support its Cape York spaceport project.