Raytheon has delivered the first PhantomStrike radar to Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for integration with its FA-50 light combat aircraft. This delivery represents a significant milestone in the companies’ defense collaboration, announced in 2023, aimed at improving the jet’s targeting and tracking capabilities.
The PhantomStrike is a compact, air-cooled radar featuring gallium nitride technology, providing faster signal processing, enhanced detection, and improved resistance to electronic jamming. Its full fire-control capabilities fit within a small footprint, making it suitable for light fighters, helicopters, and unmanned aerial systems. Weighing roughly half of a conventional radar, it allows pilots to identify and respond to threats more rapidly while delivering advanced performance at nearly half the cost of standard systems, according to Raytheon.
Earlier this year, Raytheon tested the radar on its in-house Multi-Program Testbed aircraft, demonstrating strong air-to-air and air-to-ground performance. In August, a lab unit was delivered for integration testing with a KAI FA-50 airframe. The system is already cleared for export under a Direct Commercial Sale agreement, enabling sales to international customers. Raytheon currently manufactures the radar across facilities in Mississippi, Arizona, and Scotland, with additional support from its UK operations.
