Ku-Band Sentinel

Overview

The AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel is one of the most widely deployed short-range air defense radars in the world, serving as the eyes of SHORAD units across the US military and more than 20 allied nations. While originally designed to detect conventional air threats like aircraft and helicopters, the Sentinel's 3D phased array capability has given it a growing role in counter-UAS operations as the primary cueing sensor for integrated air defense systems that now must contend with drone threats.

Development History

Raytheon developed the Sentinel as a replacement for the aging AN/MPQ-49 Forward Area Alerting Radar (FAAR), providing a modern 3D phased array capability for the SHORAD community. The radar entered service in 2003 and has been continuously upgraded with improved processing and software. As the UAS threat emerged, Sentinel received software updates to improve its ability to detect and track smaller, slower-moving drone targets that were not part of the original design requirements.

Operational Concept

Sentinel operates as the surveillance and cueing radar for SHORAD batteries, providing the air picture that enables engagement by weapons like Stinger, M-SHORAD, and NASAMS. In the counter-UAS role, Sentinel detects UAS targets within its capability and provides tracks to the fire control system for engagement. The radar is particularly effective against Group 2 and Group 3 UAS that present sufficient radar cross sections, though it is less capable against very small Group 1 drones that require specialized C-UAS radars like KURFS.

Future Development

Raytheon is developing Sentinel A4 with improved hardware and software specifically aimed at enhancing performance against small UAS and other emerging threats. The upgrade includes a new digital receiver, increased processing power, and counter-UAS optimized waveforms. Sentinel's position as the primary SHORAD radar ensures continued investment in keeping its capabilities relevant against evolving air threats.