Saab unveils new Sea Giraffe AMB D naval radar

The latest addition to the new generation family of naval radars by Saab is the Sea Giraffe AMB D model. The latter will replace the current generation Sea Giraffe AMB medium range multi-mission surveillance radars. The Sea Giraffe AMB D features state-of the-art AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) technology and solid-state components to provide a comprehensive solution for situational awareness and decision support, creating time to act in today’s complex naval theatre

“Designed to replace the Sea Giraffe AMB, which was supplied in more than 500 units to over 30 countries across the world, the Sea Giraffe AMB D will significantly boost the performance and capabilities of the Saab family of naval radars, sitting in the middle between the smaller Sea Giraffe 1X for self-defence and the larger Sea Giraffe 4A in both rotating and fixed faces versions for air surveillance,” Gustav Klock, Naval Sales Director, surface sensor solutions, Saab surveillance, explained to a small group of media on conference call.

The Sea Giraffe AMB D is a high-performance, C-band multi-channel digital stacked beam 3D rotating naval radar which utilize state-of-the-art AESA technology and solid-state components alongside a software-defined architecture to enhance system performances compared to current generation while boosting extensive electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM) capabilities and allow for maximum availability, being ready for new technologies and capabilities. The digital radar architecture offers software-defined functions from the RF front-end.

“The radar features a new rotating antenna characterized by the latest AESA digital technology using solid state transmit/receive modules with GaN (gallium-nitride) high power amplifiers, allowing for a reduced top weight and installation simplicity alongside increased radar performances in terms of range, tracking accuracy and volume in an highly congested electronic environment, in addition to high power processing providing reduced operator workload and higher availability,” the company representative explained.

The new electronically stabilized AESA antenna features 36 Transmit/Receive Elements (TREs), of which six are grouped into a single TRM (Transmit/Receive Module), six of which are installed into the same AMB D radar antenna. According to Saab, when comparing this design to other AESA radars, it should be noted that each of the AMB D TRMs delivers approximately 20 times the output power of a typical transmit/receive module. This is possible due to the highly efficient cooling of the AMB D antenna, the company pointed out. Sporting an IFF integrated antenna in the back cover, the new AMB D model has a similar mass to the current generation, of approximately 640 kg allowing for a higher mounting, which offers wider horizon for low-altitude detection and coverage and the system availability to equip a wide range of platforms.

“In addition to the new antenna incorporating all emitting and receiving components, allowing for the waveguide removal and the introduction of state-of-the-art processing capabilities, the below deck components include the air filtering unit, a small turntable control unit, and two radar cabinets, one for the signal data processing and one for the power distribution, for a total mass of approximately 700 kg. That is less than what we see on the current mod C version (as the current generation Sea Giraffe AMB is identified by Saab),” the Saab representative explained.

“Keeping the same mass (on top) but increasing the performance by an unprecedented 50%, puts this radar on par with much heavier radars,” he outlined. Providing a clue on the new radar performances, “the instrumented range is 250 km, which represents a +50% increment compared to current AMB model, increasing significantly the time to reaction of the defended platform,” he continued. By operating at 60 rpm, the radar ensures a 1 Hz update rate for track data, providing a real-time situational aspect across a full search volume exceeding 80° of elevation.

The Sea Giraffe AMB D delivers multi-purpose functionality in a single, cost-effective package, providing simultaneously the automatic air and surface surveillance with high-accurate tracking of both air and surface targets. Compared to current generation radars this new sensor is capable to simultaneously track over 2,000 targets. It also offers simultaneous advanced targeting classification thanks to the automatic identification of both air and surface targets, as well as precision weapon support and low altitude superior detection of sea-skimming missiles and low-flying UAVs thanks to the C-band frequency advantages, alongside navigation support.

The Sea Giraffe AMB D features a sophisticated drone tracker designed to detect “Low, Slow, and Small” (LSS) targets. By analysing target behaviour and detecting moving parts of the airframe, the system effectively discriminates man-made drones from birds, ensuring a clean and actionable tactical picture. To cope with the contested and congested electronic environments in which it is expected to operate, the new radar has extensive ECCM capabilities, including very low side lobes, fast frequency changes, side lobe blanking, side lobe cancellation, sector transmission and automatic selection of least jammed frequency.  The “RAM (Rocket, Artillery and Mortar) Sense” function works in the full 360° volume while maintaining normal air surveillance, with a detection range supporting integration in VSHORAD to MRAD GBAD systems. A large number of ballistic tracks, weapon locations and impact points, can be handled simultaneously. The system has high-resolution surface surveillance with four fire control channels for gunfire splash detection and correction.

“The Sea Giraffe AMB D is engineered for maximum availability, with a reduction of the amount of spare parts by 70%. This carries with it some consequences, among which less maintenance, while the introduction of redundancy to the system, contributes to its reliability,” the Saab representative explained.

“The new generation Sea Giraffe AMB D is ready for the market and discussions are ongoing with interested customers and shipyards. The land version of the system is in production with a launch customer while the naval one is ready with a (current) lead time of 24 months,” Gustav Klock highlighted in its conclusion, referring to the model which was presented during Eurosatory 2026 exhibition.  

Images courtesy Saab