Lockheed Martin [LMT] successfully completed a site acceptance test for its new TPS-77 Multi-Role Radar (MRR) in Latvia while delivering the first of three of transportable radars for the country’s air force, the company said Monday.
Latvia ordered the three TPS-77 MRRs in 2015 to strengthen its airspace defense and low-level flight surveillance capabilities.
“Acquisition of the TPS-77 MRR is a huge investment in the strengthening of combat capabilities of the National Armed Forces, enabling the Latvian army to address current security challenges with appropriate response tools. Surveillance, especially low-level flight surveillance and identification is a vital part of Latvian airspace surveillance capabilities. New MRR technology is compatible with other types of radars used by other countries,” Raimonds Bergmanis, Latvia’s Minister of Defense, said in a statement.
The TPS-77 MRRs are designed for enhanced early warning capabilities and improved situational awareness. The radar’s multi-role scan technology provides operators the ability to select from multiple missions at a single time.
This latest TPS-77 uses considerably less power than previous versions, and incorporates 360-degree scans to toggle between missions, according to Lockheed Martin officials.
Lockheed Martin designed the new MRR version of the TPS-77 to be easily transportable, with the ability to be truck-mounted for potential use in remote sites.
Under its program with Latvia, Lockheed Martin will partner with defense industry partners in the country to support future TPS-77 MRR logistics, maintenance and procurement needs.
“The Latvian industry has been an important partner during the development and production of the Lockheed Martin TPS-77 MRRs. This support will help strengthen Latvia’s industrial capability,” said Rick Cordaro, program director for Lockheed Martin’s ground based radar division, in a statement.