General Atomics

Saab secures UK order for Giraffe 1X radar

Saab UK has received an order from the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the compact radar system Giraffe 1X.



Image courtesy Saab

The radar systems are being produced at Saab UK’s Centre of Radar Excellence on its Fareham campus, reinforcing the UK’s sovereign capability in advanced radar technology. The total order value is approximately £24 million.

The radar systems have been ordered utilising funding from the UK administered NATO Security Assistance and Training Ukraine (NSATU) Trust Fund. 

The orders highlight the growing demand for Saab’s radar systems to strengthen Weapon Locating, Air Surveillance and Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C UAS) capabilities. 

Andy Fraser, Group Managing Director at Saab UK, said: “Giraffe 1X delivers a proven capability that can be rapidly deployed to meet evolving threats, including drones. By producing these systems in Fareham, we are not only delivering world-class technology but also supporting UK industry and sovereign capability – critical for supporting our allies with their defence.” 

A spokesperson for the UK Ministry of Defence said: “This contract reflects our commitment to strengthening collective security through advanced radar technology needed to maintain operational advantage and protect shared interests.” 

As a lightweight 3D Multi Mission Radar, Giraffe 1X can be used as a mobile, deployable, or fixed sensor that can be integrated into both land and naval platforms. Giraffe 1X is a proven multi mission radar capability – operated globally with production in Sweden and the UK. Its role ranges from force protection, weapon locating, ground-based air defence (including C-UAS drone detection) and sea surface surveillance – offering unmatched flexibility for modern operations in multiple terrains.

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