The AN/APR-52 Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), which is being developed to detect radar threats for the Air Force’s future HH-60W Combat Rescue Helicopter (CRH), has demonstrated its technological maturity in a government laboratory, according to Lockheed Martin [LMT], whose Sikorsky unit is the CRH prime contractor.
The May test involved high-fidelity simulations at the Air Force Integrated Demonstrations and Applications Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, Lockheed Martin announced last week. The AN/APR-52 is designed to detect more threats and at greater ranges than existing systems.
“The successful demonstration is a key milestone to ensure the system will meet the needs of the warfighter,” said Bob Adams, director of Lockheed Martin electronic warfare programs. “The complete electronic warfare suite will significantly improve detection of current and emerging threats which increases the survivability of the HH-60W.”
Next steps for the RWR include completing environmental qualification and undergoing testing at U.S. government test ranges against various radar threat simulations.
The HH-60W, a derivative of the UH-60M Black Hawk utility helicopter, is intended to replace the Air Force’s aging HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters. The CRH air vehicle underwent a critical design review in May (Defense Daily, May 30).
The HH-60W’s first flight is slated for late 2018 at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, Fla.