Saab has received a NATO order to extend the service life of the Arthur artillery-locating radar systems operated by the Spanish Army. The contract is valued at around 540 million Swedish kronor ($57 million).
The digital Arthur radar supports target acquisition, counter-battery operations, and fire control. The life-extension program will preserve Spain’s artillery-locating capabilities while enhancing operational efficiency. Upgrades are expected to improve mobility, increase detection range, and boost accuracy, allowing the system to track more targets at longer distances while reducing its electronic signature.
Highly mobile, the Arthur radar can be deployed or packed up in under two minutes and is designed for fast-paced frontline operations. Largely automated, it operates with minimal personnel and can be mounted on various vehicles to remain functional in demanding combat environments. In operation, Arthur tracks incoming artillery, calculates enemy battery positions, provides precise impact data, and supports rapid counter-battery responses. Currently, 12 countries use the system, including Norway, Sweden, South Korea, and the Czech Republic. Spain, Italy, and the UK also operate it, and Sweden recently announced plans to donate five Arthur radars to Ukraine as part of its 18th aid package.
