Defense and security company Saab showcased its Sea Giraffe 1X naval radar for the first time at the Maritime Security East Conference in Norfolk, Va. (March 21-23). Sea Giraffe 1X offers simultaneous surface and air surveillance capabilities, a growing need in the U.S. maritime security sector.

Sea Giraffe 1X is a 3D, active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. The entire system weighs less than 650 pounds in total, making it suitable for smaller patrol ships. With no forced cooling requirements and a minimal number of line-replaceable units (LRUs), it requires little power or upkeep. All maintenance, including LRU repair, can be performed by low-level trained engineers.

“Sea Giraffe 1X is ideal for the small patrol vessels that are facing a growing role in U.S. national security,” said Gene Bojarski, Business Development Manager of Naval Programs with Saab Defense and Security USA’s Sensor Systems division. “Traditionally, smaller patrol ships have only used surface surveillance radar – but as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) become more prevalent, these ships must begin to add air surveillance capabilities as well.”

To combat the growing UAV threat, Sea Giraffe 1X features Saab’s Enhanced Low, Slow and Small (ELSS) surveillance function. This feature allows the radar system to detect and classify small, low-flying, slow-moving air targets – while concurrently conducting its full suite of other air and surface reconnaissance duties.

“Sea Giraffe 1X enhances situational awareness for maritime patrol, surface combat and counter-UAV operations,” continued Bojarski. “Nothing else on the market offers this range of capabilities in one easy, lightweight package.”