MEADS MFCR

The first Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS) Multifunction Fire Control Radar (MFCR) has begun integration level testing with a MEADS battle manager and launcher at Pratica di Mare Air Force Base near Rome, Italy.

During the test, the MEADS MFCR in full system configuration will use both dedicated flight tests and non-military aircraft to demonstrate its capabilities including 360° target acquisition and track.

MEADS International Technical Director Marco Riccetti said that the MEADS MFCR combines the capability to detect and track advanced threats, whilst providing high mobility and C-130 transportability.

"The MEADS system offers coverage and flexibility at a lower cost, including complete 360-degree defense that protects military sites and civilians against next-generation threats," Riccetti added.

MEADS is a 360° air coverage, medium-range air defence system, intended to replace the ageing Patriot Missile systems in the US and Germany, and the Nike Hercules system in Italy.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The system will protect combat forces and critical assets against tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft and unmanned aerial systems.

Further adding to the system’s capabilities, MEADS programme management agency NAMEADSMA general manager Gregory Kee said the MFCR, together with its advanced identify friend or foe, Mode 5 capability, is another example of the cost effectiveness of MEADS.

"The advanced solid-state architecture is more reliable than fielded systems, and MEADS can provide eight times the coverage with far fewer system assets," Kee stated.

The rotating X-band MFCR has recently completed its initial performance tests in a near-field facility at SELEX Sistemi Integrati SpA in Rome.

MEADS will undergo another two planned intercept tests this year, while its initial flight test was successfully completed at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, US in November 2011.

The participating companies in the design and development of MEADS include MBDA in Italy, LFK in Germany and Lockheed Martin in the US, which have formed a multinational joint venture headquartered in Orlando, Florida, US.

Image: MFCR’s Transceiver Group being shown during testing at a near-field facility in Rome. Photo: Lockheed Martin.