Taiwan enhances air defence with radar systems

The US has taken a significant step to bolster Taiwan's defence capabilities by approving the sale of two advanced air defence radar systems. 

The deal, arranged through the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the US (TECRO), involves the AN/TPS-77 and AN/TPS-78 radar systems manufactured by major US defence companies Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media. 

The total cost of the purchase is estimated at around $828 million, as reported by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). The AN/TPS-77 and AN/TPS-78 radar systems are vital for air surveillance and defense networks globally, providing advanced detection and response capabilities for numerous nations.

These radars are specifically designed to accurately track airborne threats at varying altitudes and ranges, improving situational awareness and enabling rapid responses to potential incursions.   Engineered for both mobility and resilience, these radar systems are essential for countries seeking to protect their airspace effectively.

Their durability and adaptability make them invaluable in both permanent installations and field operations, tailored to meet specific defense needs. The AN/TPS-77 radar system is notable for its versatile, mobile design. This 3D radar can be quickly moved and deployed in various locations, making it ideal for complex or changing terrains. 

Its extensive range and precision make it particularly effective for tracking fast-moving objects and delivering crucial early-warning capabilities. The AN/TPS-77 is preferred by militaries around the world for its ability to detect small, low-flying threats, thus improving response times to aerial incursions.  

On the other hand, the AN/TPS-78 radar system also provides 3D tracking capabilities but is specifically optimized for use in harsher weather conditions and fixed positions. With its long range and high-resolution detection, the AN/TPS-78 excels at monitoring airspace for extended periods from a permanent location, offering a strong, reliable defense in challenging environments. 

Taiwan intends to incorporate the AN/TPS-77 and AN/TPS-78 radars into its comprehensive air defense strategy, enhancing existing systems like the American Patriot PAC-3 and Taiwan’s own Sky Bow III (Tien Kung III). The Patriot PAC-3 serves as the main defense against long-range ballistic missiles and hostile aircraft, utilizing the radar's high-precision tracking data to facilitate timely interception decisions.   Meanwhile, the Sky Bow III system enhances Taiwan's defenses against medium to high-altitude aircraft and missile threats, providing an additional layer of airspace security.

Given the rising concerns about potential drone threats, Taiwan's defense strategy is increasingly focused on anti-drone capabilities. The AN/TPS-77 and AN/TPS-78 radar systems are designed to detect smaller, low-altitude drones, offering accurate tracking data essential for neutralizing these emerging aerial threats before they can endanger critical sites and assets. Alongside the acquisition of new radar technology, Taiwan is also modernizing older systems, including the Hawk XXI, an upgraded variant of the MIM-23 Hawk missile system. 

Renowned for its mobility and versatility, the Hawk XXI is designed to engage low-altitude and fast-moving targets in short- and medium-range situations. By incorporating data from the AN/TPS-77 and AN/TPS-78 radar systems, the Hawk XXI enhances its capability to track and counter airborne threats, thereby reinforcing Taiwan’s multi-layered air defense strategy.

By Naila Huseynova