Thales has announced the launch of its compact 3D tactical Ground Master 60 radar, intended for use with short and extremely short-range weapon systems.

The Ground Master 60 is the only multi-mission radar capable of detecting all types of targets while on-the-move. Due to its compact design, it is perfectly adapted for operational deployment on a vehicle. The Ground Master 60 provides projected forces with better situational awareness of the air picture, thereby giving them increased protection during their missions.

In addition to its excellent detection capacity while on-the-move, the Ground Master 60 can detect rockets, artillery shells and mortars to effectively complete the protection of deployed forces. An “all-in-one" radar, the Ground Master 60 is equipped with both a generator and an air conditioning system; key factors in ensuring high reliability and increased mobility. The radar can also be installed and removed very quickly in an operation theatre.

Whether positioned on the front lines or airlifted to inaccessible areas, thanks to its outstanding detection capabilities, the Ground Master 60 delivers accurate targeting information to associated weapon systems.

To increase air cover and protect especially sensitive zones such as a medium-range radar site, the Ground Master 60 can also be operated statically.

“This new version of the Ground Master 60 encompasses the best technologies developed by Thales in terms of ground radars. It is the perfect complement to the medium and long-range radars from the Ground Master family. This extremely mobile radar offering high detection capacity will increase the protection of the forces deployed at theatre level,” said Serge Adrian, Senior Vice President of Surface Radars Activities at Thales.

Ground Masters are a family of multi-mission air defense radars with an architecture based on common building blocks and interfaces. Made of the most innovative components and technology (Digital Beam Forming technique and Stacked Beam concept) Ground Master radars provide outstanding detection performance against a wide array of threats in the most severe environments. Ground Master radars offer a high level of redundancy setting new standards in reliability and operational availability. The Ground Master radar performance and technical status can be remotely monitored for maintenance using a standard protocol underpinned by cyber solutions. To date, over 100 radars from the Ground Master family have been sold throughout the world.

Thales is a global high technology leader in the aerospace, transportation, defense and security markets. With 62,000 employees in 56 countries, Thales reported sales of 14 billion euros in 2015. Over 22,000 engineers and researchers give Thales a unique capability to design and deploy equipment, systems and services to meet the most complex security requirements. Its exceptional international footprint allows it to work closely with its customers all over the world.