U.S. Navy's MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft completed its maiden sensor integrated flight, with a new maritime search radar from Naval Ai...
The radar, known as the Multi-Function Active Sensor (MFAS), will greatly improve maritime surveillance capability of MQ-4C with a 360-degree view of a large geographic area while providing all-weather coverage to expedite detecting, classifying, tracking and identifying points of interest.
The Northrop Grumman developed active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar was matured onboard a Gulfstream GII testbed aircraft.
During this flight, MFAS exercised its primary operating mode, known as Maritime Surface Surveillance (MSS). The MSS mode provides continuous watch over a broad area.
Along with the MFAS radar, the MQ-4C will also carry an Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor that will provide still imagery and full-motion video of potential threats; an electronic support measures package to identify and geolocate radar threat signals; and an Automatic Identification System (AIS) that will detect and track vessels equipped with AIS responders.
The Northrop Grumman’s MQ-4C Triton provides real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) over vast ocean and coastal regions. When operational, the MQ-4C Triton UAS will provide 24/7 ISR coverage virtually anywhere in the world.
The naval variant of the Global Hawk UAS operated by US Air Force, the Triton incorporates a reinforced airframe and wing, along with de-icing and lightning protection systems. These features allow the aircraft to descend through cloud layers to gain a closer view of ships and other targets at sea when needed.
The aircraft can fly up to 24 hours at a time, at altitudes higher than 10 miles, with an operational range of 8,200 nautical miles.
US Navy plans to field 68 Tritons, which will complement the 117 Boeing P-8A Poseidon anti submarine warfare and maritime patrol aircraft fleet being inducted.
