Hensoldt’s Spexer 2000 3D Radar Boosts German Navy’s Drone Defense with Advanced AESA Tracking

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Hensoldt, a renowned German sensor specialist, has introduced the Spexer 2000 3D radar system as a cutting-edge maritime solution for detecting and countering aerial threats such as drones. This radar is specifically designed to meet the growing need for advanced surveillance and defense capabilities in naval operations, particularly in environments where conventional detection systems may fall short. With its robust features and military-grade specifications, the Spexer 2000 3D is poised to become a critical asset in modern naval defense strategies.

Spexer 2000 3D. Photo: hensoldt.net

The German Navy is expected to be the first to deploy this radar system, with two units scheduled for installation aboard the K130 class corvettes. These ships, known for their agility and versatility in coastal operations, require sensor systems that can operate reliably under demanding conditions. Spexer 2000 3D was selected not only for its technical compatibility with the K130 platform but also because it is the only radar system that meets the stringent military requirements set by the German defense authorities.

Operating in the X-band frequency range, the Spexer 2000 3D utilizes solid-state technology and an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) with Pulse-Doppler capabilities. This configuration allows the radar to detect and track a wide variety of targets with high precision, including micro-UAVs, helicopters, fighter jets, missiles, unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), and both ground and sea-based threats. Its ability to distinguish between different types of targets is enhanced by spectral-based automatic classification, which enables operators to respond appropriately to each threat.

One of the standout features of the Spexer 2000 3D is its capacity to track over 300 targets simultaneously within a 120-degree sector. This high tracking capability ensures comprehensive situational awareness, even in complex operational environments where multiple threats may emerge concurrently. The radar’s fixed panel antenna design supports integration into various platforms, including vehicles and stationary installations, while also enabling detection at high elevation angles.

Mobility is another key advantage of the Spexer 2000 3D, as it is equipped with scan-on-the-move functionality. This feature allows the radar to maintain surveillance and tracking capabilities even while the platform is in motion, making it ideal for battlefield surveillance and mobile defense units. The compact dimensions of the antenna—approximately 600x500x200 mm—and its lightweight construction at around 35 kilograms further enhance its adaptability for diverse deployment scenarios.

Deployment options for the radar are highly flexible, allowing it to be mounted on tripods, vehicles, masts, or buildings depending on mission requirements. This versatility ensures that the radar can be rapidly deployed in various operational theaters, from urban environments to remote coastal regions. Its performance in high-clutter settings, such as cities or during adverse weather conditions, underscores its reliability and robustness in real-world applications.

The Spexer 2000 3D also features standard interface protocols and a 1 Gbit Ethernet LAN link, facilitating seamless integration into command and control (C2) systems. This connectivity ensures that radar data can be efficiently transmitted and processed within broader defense networks, enabling coordinated responses and strategic decision-making. The system’s compatibility with existing infrastructure makes it a practical choice for modernizing naval and ground-based surveillance capabilities.

Beyond its maritime applications, the Spexer radar is already in use across several German defense programs, including the Skyranger 30 air defense system, the HoWiSM high-energy laser platform, and the NNbS close-area protection initiative. These deployments highlight the radar’s versatility and effectiveness in a range of defense contexts, from counter-drone operations to integrated air and missile defense. Its proven performance in these systems reinforces its credibility and operational value.

Hensoldt emphasizes the software flexibility of the Spexer 2000 3D, which allows the radar to be tailored to specific mission profiles and operational scenarios. This adaptability is crucial in today’s dynamic threat landscape, where defense systems must evolve rapidly to counter emerging technologies and tactics. The ability to reconfigure the radar’s functions through software updates ensures long-term relevance and cost-effectiveness for military users.

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