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{{Short description|American short-range air defense radar}}
{{ic|date=November 2016}}
{{more footnotes needed|date=November 2016}}
{{Infobox radar
{{Infobox radar
| name = AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel
| name = AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel
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| pulsewidth = <!--pulse width-->
| pulsewidth = <!--pulse width-->
| RPM = <!--revolutions per minute-->
| RPM = <!--revolutions per minute-->
| range = AN/MPQ-64: {{convert|40|km|mi|abbr=on}}<br>AN/MPQ-64F1:
| range = AN/MPQ-64: {{convert|40|km|mi|abbr=on}} <br />
| altitude = Operating: {{convert|3000|m|ft|abbr=on}}<br>Non-operating: {{convert|12000|m|ft|abbr=on}}
AN/MPQ-64F1/A3: {{convert|120|km|mi|abbr=on}}
| altitude = Operating: {{convert|3000|m|ft|abbr=on}}<br />Non-operating: {{convert|12000|m|ft|abbr=on}}
| diameter = <!--{{convert|X|m|ft|abbr=on}}-->
| diameter = <!--{{convert|X|m|ft|abbr=on}}-->
| azimuth = 360°
| azimuth = 360°
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}}
}}


The '''AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel''' is an [[X-band]] [[passive electronically scanned array|electronically steered]] [[pulse-Doppler radar|pulse-Doppler]] [[3D radar]] system used to alert and cue [[Short Range Air Defense]] (SHORAD) [[weapons]] to the locations of hostile targets approaching their front line forces. It is currently produced by [[Raytheon Missiles & Defense]].
The '''AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel''' is a [[3D radar]] used to alert and queue [[Short Range Air Defense]] (SHORAD) [[weapons]] to the locations of hostile targets approaching their front line forces. The Sentinel radar is deployed with forward area [[air defense]] units of the [[United States Army|U.S. Army]]. It is an [[X-band]] range-gated, [[pulse-Doppler radar]] system. The [[antenna (radio)|antenna]] uses [[passive electronically scanned array|phase-frequency electronic scanning technology]], forming sharp 3D pencil beams covering large surveillance and track volume. The radar automatically acquires, tracks, [[Statistical classification|classifies]], identifies and reports targets, including [[cruise missile]]s, [[unmanned aerial vehicle]]s, and both rotary- and fixed-wing [[aircraft]]. It uses a high scan rate (30 RPM) and operates at a range of {{convert|40|km|mi|abbr=on}}. The radar is designed with high resistance to [[electronic countermeasures]] (ECM). Mounted on a towed platform, it can be positioned remotely from the rest of the unit, operated [[autonomous]]ly and communicate with the [[Fire Distribution Center]] (FDC) via [[wideband]] fiber-optic link. It can also distribute its data over a [[SINCGARS]] radio network.

First built in 1995 as a modification of [[AN/TPQ-36]]A for search and track role in the Norwegian [[NASAMS]] air defense system, the Sentinel radar is deployed with forward area [[air defense]] units of the [[United States Army|U.S. Army]]. Mounted on a towed platform, it can be positioned remotely from the rest of the unit.


==Main characteristics==
==Main characteristics==
* Acquisition and Tracking Surveillance Radar
* Proven X-band, 5D Radar
* 30 RPM (ABT) 20 RPM (ADEF) Rotation Rate
* Low-altitude, medium-range air defense sensor
* Detects fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft, cruise missiles, and UAVs at reduced ranges and trucks on a highway
* Azimuth: 360 deg; altitude: {{convert|40000|m|ft|abbr=on}}; range: {{convert|80000|m|ft|abbr=on}} effective
* Large Surveillance and Track Volume
* Automatic Programmable Digital Output
* Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) Signal and Data Processor
* Low Side Lobes and Narrow Pencil Beam
* Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) and Anti-Radiation Missile (ARM) resistant
* High mobility, transportability and reliability
* Deployed using modified HMMWV fitted with a 400&nbsp;Hz on-board generator
* Provides identification of friendly aircraft through IFF


The [[antenna (radio)|antenna]] uses [[passive electronically scanned array|phase-frequency electronic scanning technology]], forming sharp 3D pencil beams covering large surveillance and track volume. It uses a rotating platform with a high scan rate (30 RPM) to provide 360 degree coverage. The radar is designed with high resistance to [[electronic countermeasures]] (ECM) and [[anti-radiation missile]]s (ARM).<ref name=thales-raytheon-sentinel>{{Cite web|date=2007-05-14|title=AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel - ThalesRaytheonSystems|url=http://www.thalesraytheon.com/us-anmpq64.htm|access-date=2021-10-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070514105331/http://www.thalesraytheon.com/us-anmpq64.htm|archive-date=2007-05-14}}</ref>
==Upgrades==
1. Under an ongoing product modernization program, Sentinel is equipped with new, modern COTS-based electronics which ensures greater performance while implementing a low risk technology insertion. This Improved Sentinel Radar provides a significant range extension improvement.
* Improved target detection at extended ranges&mdash;especially cruise missiles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
* Improved target detection for rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft
* Improved capability to cue targets beyond visual range
2. The Army has designated the Sentinel radar as an objective force system (to remain in the field until 2030) and has developed a modernization plan to meet those requirements with plans to deploy to the lunar surface.<br />
3. Multi Mode Sentinel: New operational mode developed for acquisition and tracking of Rocket, Artillery and Mortar (RAM) Fire.
* Software modification provides for quick updates of fielded systems worldwide.
* This new counter mortar mode brings the essential capabilities for 360 degree azimuth detection for RAM fire.
* This new counter mortar mode provides rapid information on the origin of the hostile fire as well as an estimate of the impact point of the fire which is useful to warn personnel of imminent danger.


The system automatically acquires, tracks, [[Statistical classification|classifies]], identifies and reports high- and low-altitude targets, including [[cruise missile]]s, [[unmanned aerial vehicle]]s, and both rotary- and fixed-wing [[aircraft]]. Identification of friendly aircraft is aided by [[identification friend or foe]] (IFF) interrogation.
⚫
The new version is named AN/MPQ-64F1 Improved Sentinel.

The system can be deployed using HMMWV fitted with a 10&nbsp;kW 400&nbsp;Hz 115/200&nbsp;VDC on-board power generator. It can be operated [[autonomous]]ly and communicate with the [[fire direction center]] via [[wideband]] fiber-optic link. It can also distribute its data over a [[SINCGARS]] radio network.

⚫
== AN/MPQ-64A1 Improved Sentinel ==
{{Anchor|AN/MPQ-64A1}}
Under A1 Improved Sentinel modernization program, existing Sentinel units are equipped with modern digital [[commercial off-the-shelf|COTS]]-based electronics for signal and data processing, which ensures greater performance and allows software modification for quick updates of fielded systems.

Waveform upgrades for the receiver/exciter and the replacement of the transmitter with power amplifier modules allows Sentinel to generate, receive and filter low-intensity target classification waveforms. Variable rotation rate increases time on target and position the antenna to improve classification and tracking of smaller cruise missile targets. Updated software supports classification of beyond visual range targets and electronic countermeasures.<ref name=dacis-0125WK5057/>

The upgrade provides a significant range extension and better detection against subsonic cruise missiles, slow-moving Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and drones, and rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft.

== AN/MPQ-64F1 ==
Updated version of Improved Sentinel for the [[NASAMS]] 2 air defense system.

== AN/MPQ-64M2==
Employed by the Dutch [[Joint Ground-based Air Defence Command]].

== AN/MPQ-64A3 Enhanced Sentinel==
{{Anchor|AN/MPQ-64A3}}
The U.S. Army ordered the A3 Enhanced Sentinel improvement program in 2011.<ref name=US-2011-sentinel>{{cite web | url=https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/usa-1627m-for-sentinels-to-watch-the-skies-07129/ | title=USA: $162.7M for Sentinels to Watch the Skies }}</ref>

The upgrade includes the TPX-57 Mode 5 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) modification kit, which consists of a new Ethernet router, enhanced Radar Control Terminal (eRCT), Signal Data Processor (SDP) box, and multiple circuit card assemblies. This will convert existing A1 Improved Sentinel units to A3 Enhanced Sentinel configuration, increasing reliability and fixing identified hardware issues <ref name=dacis-0125WK5057/><ref name=sentinel-a3-2019>{{cite web | url=https://www.militaryaerospace.com/unmanned/article/16722055/thalesraytheon-to-build-50-anmpq64-enhanced-sentinel-a3-radar-systems-in-519-million-deal | title=Thales-Raytheon to build 50 AN/MPQ-64 Enhanced Sentinel A3 radar systems in $51.9 million deal }}</ref> to match the capabilities of the F1 Improved Sentinel.<ref name=US-2011-sentinel/>

The eRCT enables remote operations and includes a tactical data recorder needed to support [[counter-battery radar]] capabilities. A new operational mode, Multi Mode Sentinel, provides detection for Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar (RAM) fire, giving rapid information on the point of origin of the hostile fire as well as an estimate of the impact point.

[[File:220124-A-UV688-219 - Allied Spirit 22 (Image 1 of 6).jpg|thumb|right|AN/MPQ-64A3]]
AN/MPQ-64A3 is mounted on a 2.5 ton trailer with an on-board power generator, towed by an armored [[Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles]] (FMTV) truck.<ref name=sentinel-a3-2019/>

Additional updates are planned for the FY2016-2022. The Common Platform Upgrade modifies the prime mover for the rotating antenna to a common Army platform, which allows the sensor to receive commands from the [[United States Army Futures Command#Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System|Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System]] (IBCS) network.

The Adjunct Sensor upgrade improves countermeasure protection and threat detection by using a separate S-Band antenna. Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) upgrade adds Mode S support with GPS M-Code capability.

== AN/MPQ-64A4==

In 2019, the U.S. Army selected [[Lockheed Martin]] to develop the [[active electronically scanned array]] (AESA) variant of the radar in a $281 million contract.<ref name=defenceblog-sentinel-A4>{{cite web | title=U.S. Army awards $281 million contract for newest air and missile defense radar | website=Defence Blog | date=28 September 2019 | url=https://defence-blog.com/u-s-army-awards-281-million-contract-for-newest-air-and-missile-defense-radar/ | access-date=6 August 2023}}</ref> The Sentinel A4 is a complete redesign of the sensor that uses digital processing and solid-state antenna modules based on [[gallium nitride]] (GAN) transmitters. The scalable modular architecture is shared with the long-range [[TPY-4|AN/TPY-4]] radar, which has 1000 individually controlled elements and uses [[GPGPU|GPU computing]] for signal processing.<ref name=lm-tpy-4-first>{{cite web | url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/lockheed-martin-tpy-4-radar/ | title=Lockheed Martin completes first AN/TPY-4 radar production | date=5 May 2022 }}</ref>

The AESA antenna allows extended range, faster and more accurate hostile target recognition, and ability to track more threats. It will detect and track small targets, such as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Cruise Missiles, and slow targets, such as UAS and Rotary Wing (RW) aircraft, at low altitudes in clutter and urban settings, with high levels of unwanted signals and echoes generated from physical objects in the environment.<ref name=dacis-0125WK5057>[https://www.dacis.com/budget/budget_pdf/FY20/PROC/A/0125WK5057_85.pdf Exhibit P-40, Budget Line] dacis.com</ref>

Sentinel A4 will be able to contribute sensor data to the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) network and Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2.<ref name=lm-sentinel-a4-product>{{cite web | url=https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/sentinel-a4.html | title=Sentinel A4 | date=9 May 2022 }}</ref>


==Manufacturer==
==Manufacturer==
Before its acquisition by [[Raytheon]], the [[Hughes Aircraft|Hughes Aircraft Co.]] developed the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar at its [[Fullerton, California]], facility, and manufactures it at its [[Forest, Mississippi]], plant.
Produced by [[Raytheon Missiles & Defense]]. Before its acquisition by the [[Raytheon Company]], the [[Hughes Aircraft|Hughes Aircraft Co.]] developed the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar at its plant in [[Fullerton, California]], and manufactured it at its facility in [[Forest, Mississippi]].

==Nomenclature==

Per the [[Joint Electronics Type Designation System|Joint Electronics Type Designation System (JETDS)]], the nomenclature AN/MPQ-64 is

* "AN/" indicating Army/Navy(Marines)
* "M" for 'mobile',
* "P" indicating a position finder (radar).
* "Q" for a special-purpose(multipurpose) radar, in this case 3D RADARs.
* "64" is the 64th model of this family of MPQ radars.


==See also==
==See also==
*[[NASAMS]]
*[[Joint Electronics Type Designation System]]
*[[AN/TPQ-36]]
*[[List of military electronics of the United States]]

==References==
{{reflist}}


== External links ==
== External links ==
*[https://www.raytheonmissilesanddefense.com/what-we-do/counter-uas/sensors/sentinel-radar Sentinel radar at Raytheon Missiles and Defense]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20070514105331/http://www.thalesraytheon.com/us-anmpq64.htm Thales-Raytheon site]

{{Raytheon}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:AN MPQ-64 Sentinel}}
[[Category:Ground radars]]
[[Category:Ground radars]]
[[Category:Military radars of the United States]]
[[Category:Military radars of the United States]]
[[Category:Raytheon products]]
[[Category:Raytheon Company products]]
[[Category:Military electronics of the United States]]
[[Category:Military electronics of the United States]]
[[Category:Military equipment introduced in the 2000s]]

Latest revision as of 03:14, 12 August 2024

AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel
A Sentinel radar
Country of originUnited States
FrequencyX band
RangeAN/MPQ-64: 40 km (25 mi)
AN/MPQ-64F1/A3: 120 km (75 mi)
AltitudeOperating: 3,000 m (9,800 ft)
Non-operating: 12,000 m (39,000 ft)
Azimuth360°
Elevation–10° to +55°

The AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel is an X-band electronically steered pulse-Doppler 3D radar system used to alert and cue Short Range Air Defense (SHORAD) weapons to the locations of hostile targets approaching their front line forces. It is currently produced by Raytheon Missiles & Defense.

First built in 1995 as a modification of AN/TPQ-36A for search and track role in the Norwegian NASAMS air defense system, the Sentinel radar is deployed with forward area air defense units of the U.S. Army. Mounted on a towed platform, it can be positioned remotely from the rest of the unit.

Main characteristics

[edit]

The antenna uses phase-frequency electronic scanning technology, forming sharp 3D pencil beams covering large surveillance and track volume. It uses a rotating platform with a high scan rate (30 RPM) to provide 360 degree coverage. The radar is designed with high resistance to electronic countermeasures (ECM) and anti-radiation missiles (ARM).[1]

The system automatically acquires, tracks, classifies, identifies and reports high- and low-altitude targets, including cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and both rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft. Identification of friendly aircraft is aided by identification friend or foe (IFF) interrogation.

The system can be deployed using HMMWV fitted with a 10 kW 400 Hz 115/200 VDC on-board power generator. It can be operated autonomously and communicate with the fire direction center via wideband fiber-optic link. It can also distribute its data over a SINCGARS radio network.

AN/MPQ-64A1 Improved Sentinel

[edit]

Under A1 Improved Sentinel modernization program, existing Sentinel units are equipped with modern digital COTS-based electronics for signal and data processing, which ensures greater performance and allows software modification for quick updates of fielded systems.

Waveform upgrades for the receiver/exciter and the replacement of the transmitter with power amplifier modules allows Sentinel to generate, receive and filter low-intensity target classification waveforms. Variable rotation rate increases time on target and position the antenna to improve classification and tracking of smaller cruise missile targets. Updated software supports classification of beyond visual range targets and electronic countermeasures.[2]

The upgrade provides a significant range extension and better detection against subsonic cruise missiles, slow-moving Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and drones, and rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft.

AN/MPQ-64F1

[edit]

Updated version of Improved Sentinel for the NASAMS 2 air defense system.

AN/MPQ-64M2

[edit]

Employed by the Dutch Joint Ground-based Air Defence Command.

AN/MPQ-64A3 Enhanced Sentinel

[edit]

The U.S. Army ordered the A3 Enhanced Sentinel improvement program in 2011.[3]

The upgrade includes the TPX-57 Mode 5 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) modification kit, which consists of a new Ethernet router, enhanced Radar Control Terminal (eRCT), Signal Data Processor (SDP) box, and multiple circuit card assemblies. This will convert existing A1 Improved Sentinel units to A3 Enhanced Sentinel configuration, increasing reliability and fixing identified hardware issues [2][4] to match the capabilities of the F1 Improved Sentinel.[3]

The eRCT enables remote operations and includes a tactical data recorder needed to support counter-battery radar capabilities. A new operational mode, Multi Mode Sentinel, provides detection for Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar (RAM) fire, giving rapid information on the point of origin of the hostile fire as well as an estimate of the impact point.

AN/MPQ-64A3

AN/MPQ-64A3 is mounted on a 2.5 ton trailer with an on-board power generator, towed by an armored Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) truck.[4]

Additional updates are planned for the FY2016-2022. The Common Platform Upgrade modifies the prime mover for the rotating antenna to a common Army platform, which allows the sensor to receive commands from the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) network.

The Adjunct Sensor upgrade improves countermeasure protection and threat detection by using a separate S-Band antenna. Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) upgrade adds Mode S support with GPS M-Code capability.

AN/MPQ-64A4

[edit]

In 2019, the U.S. Army selected Lockheed Martin to develop the active electronically scanned array (AESA) variant of the radar in a $281 million contract.[5] The Sentinel A4 is a complete redesign of the sensor that uses digital processing and solid-state antenna modules based on gallium nitride (GAN) transmitters. The scalable modular architecture is shared with the long-range AN/TPY-4 radar, which has 1000 individually controlled elements and uses GPU computing for signal processing.[6]

The AESA antenna allows extended range, faster and more accurate hostile target recognition, and ability to track more threats. It will detect and track small targets, such as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Cruise Missiles, and slow targets, such as UAS and Rotary Wing (RW) aircraft, at low altitudes in clutter and urban settings, with high levels of unwanted signals and echoes generated from physical objects in the environment.[2]

Sentinel A4 will be able to contribute sensor data to the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS) network and Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2.[7]

Manufacturer

[edit]

Produced by Raytheon Missiles & Defense. Before its acquisition by the Raytheon Company, the Hughes Aircraft Co. developed the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar at its plant in Fullerton, California, and manufactured it at its facility in Forest, Mississippi.

Nomenclature

[edit]

Per the Joint Electronics Type Designation System (JETDS), the nomenclature AN/MPQ-64 is

  • "AN/" indicating Army/Navy(Marines)
  • "M" for 'mobile',
  • "P" indicating a position finder (radar).
  • "Q" for a special-purpose(multipurpose) radar, in this case 3D RADARs.
  • "64" is the 64th model of this family of MPQ radars.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel - ThalesRaytheonSystems". 2007-05-14. Archived from the original on 2007-05-14. Retrieved 2021-10-05.
  2. ^ a b c Exhibit P-40, Budget Line dacis.com
  3. ^ a b "USA: $162.7M for Sentinels to Watch the Skies".
  4. ^ a b "Thales-Raytheon to build 50 AN/MPQ-64 Enhanced Sentinel A3 radar systems in $51.9 million deal".
  5. ^ "U.S. Army awards $281 million contract for newest air and missile defense radar". Defence Blog. 28 September 2019. Retrieved 6 August 2023.
  6. ^ "Lockheed Martin completes first AN/TPY-4 radar production". 5 May 2022.
  7. ^ "Sentinel A4". 9 May 2022.
[edit]
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