U.S. Air Force has ordered 19 Lockheed Martin TPY-4 radars to enhance long-range air surveillance

In a recent article published on April 22, 2025, by the U.S. defense news source ‘Defense Daily’, it was disclosed that the U.S. Air Force has granted Lockheed Martin a total of $472 million for the purchase of 19 TPY-4 ground-based radar systems. These radars are being acquired through the Three-Dimensional Expeditionary Long-Range Radar (3DELRR) initiative, overseen by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) located at Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts.

The Lockheed Martin TPY-4 represents a state-of-the-art, L-band active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, aimed at significantly improving long-range air surveillance and missile defense capabilities. It features Gallium Nitride (GaN) transmitter technology, which enhances power efficiency and reliability compared to previous systems. Its fully digital, software-defined architecture allows for quick adaptation to new threats and mission needs—essential traits for contemporary and future combat scenarios.

A notable feature of the TPY-4 is its 360-degree coverage and long-range detection ability, which can identify aerial threats, including low-profile unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and ballistic missiles, at ranges of up to approximately 556 kilometers (300 nautical miles). This capability remains effective even in environments with high electromagnetic interference.

The radar’s sophisticated signal processing improves its ability to detect smaller, stealthier targets, thereby bolstering defense and surveillance operations. Additionally, the radar’s modular and transportable design is a significant benefit.

It can be utilized in both fixed and mobile setups and is compatible with various transport modes, including C-130 and C-17 aircraft, ground vehicles, rail, and helicopters. This adaptability supports the U.S. Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) strategy, which prioritizes the need for quickly deployable and resilient airpower systems.

On April 7, 2025, the U.S. Air Force marked a pivotal moment in its program with the receipt of its first TPY-4 radar. This delivery triggers government testing and lays the groundwork for full operational deployment, with plans to deploy up to 35 radar units by the end of 2028.

Despite facing some developmental setbacks, as highlighted in a Department of Defense Inspector General report regarding premature transitions into rapid fielding phases without adequate prototyping, recent progress indicates that the program is regaining momentum towards its capability goals.

The TPY-4 has garnered international interest, particularly from Norway, which has placed an order for 11 units, reflecting the system’s versatility across various operational contexts and threat scenarios. For the U.S. military, the TPY-4 significantly enhances detection and tracking capabilities against a wide array of aerial threats, bolstering situational awareness, defensive preparedness, and operational adaptability.

With its advanced AESA technology, digital flexibility, and portable design, the TPY-4 radar represents a vital investment that strengthens the Air Force’s capacity to secure airspace and effectively address contemporary threat challenges.