US Approves the Sale of AN/TPQ-50 Lightweight Counter Mortar Radar Systems To The United Arab Emirates
The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) reported that the US State Department decided to approve an estimated $85 million Foreign Military Sale of the AN/TPQ-50 Radar and related equipment to the Government of the United Arab Emirates. The necessary certification as well as related documentation announcing this possible sale were submitted to the US Congress on December 4, 2023, according to the agency.
This potential sale includes 18 man portable AN/TPQ-50 artillery and mortar detection radars, as well as 107mm high explosive (HE) rockets for testing and qualification, Computer Digital Military Laptop Radar Control Display units, and 5kW Advanced Medium Mobile Power Source (AMMPS) Trailer-Mounted, Diesel Engine Driven Power Unit PU-2001. The package also includes other essential elements such as spare parts, consumables, accessories, logistics and program support.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated that “the proposed sale will support efforts to protect critical infrastructure and high value civilian assets, as well as military installations and forces from rocket, artillery, and mortar (RAM) and unmanned aerial system threats. It will also further enhance the United States – UAE relationship, both politically and militarily, while also increasing the UAE’s effectiveness in executing military and civil defense operations that promote U.S. national interests.” The agency also stated that the proposed sale would not affect the basic military balance in the region.
Using a non-rotating, electronically steered antenna, the AN/TPQ-50 counterfire radar provides continuous 360-degree surveillance as well as 3-D rocket, artillery, and mortar (RAM) location. The radar system detects mortar threats within 0.5 km to 10 km, artillery within 1 km to 10 km, and rockets within 1 km to 10 km with an estimated 85% accuracy. When RAM or improved munitions are detected, the radar sends an early warning message informing the operator that a round is on its way. It then collects enough data to pinpoint the point of origin to within 50 meters from a distance of more than 10 kilometers. This data is relayed to an integrated command and control station or a short-range air defense system for a counter-fire response.
The AN/TPQ-50 radar system can be operated in a standalone (6 two-person lift transit cases) or vehicle-mounted (M1152A1 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle with B2 Armor Kit). The radar system, which is operated by a team of two personnel with Military Occupational Specialization 13R, has a deployment time of 20 minutes and a displacement time of 10 minutes. The radar system, which can be transported by air, rail, or ship, is notable for its adaptability and ease of maintenance, as well as its mobility.