The EL/M-2248 MF-STAR is a GaN based multifunction active electronically scanned array naval radar system developed by IAI Elta for maritime installation on warships. It is capable of tracking both air and surface targets and providing fire control guidance. MF-STAR is an acronym of Multi-Function Surveillance, Track And Guidance Radar.
Design and description The EL/M-2248 MF-STAR is a multifunction solid-state Active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar developed for a new generation of naval platforms. The radar system is made up of 4 active arrays operating in the S-band, each of the 4 arrays is positioned in one direction. The radar employs multi-beam and pulse Doppler techniques, as well as robust Electronic counter-countermeasures techniques to extract low radar cross-section targets from complex clutter and jamming environments. AESA radars provide a low probability of intercept of emitted signals and help the ships remain stealthy. Weighing only seven tons, the system can be installed on smaller vessels of corvette size and above.
The MF-STAR is capable of tracking both air and surface targets and can track hundreds of targets simultaneously with a very fast refresh rate. It is capable of providing guidance illumination and mid course updates to both active and semi-active surface-to-air missiles and anti-ship missiles, with multiple simultaneous engagement capability. It is also capable of automatic splash detection and correction for naval gunnery support.
While targets are tracked at long range threats are automatically recognized at medium range and automatic track initiation takes place. Sea skimming attacking missile are tracked at >25 km while high flying fighter aircraft are automatically tracked at >250 km.
Performance and Parameters
ParametersCorvette VersionFrigate VersionRange>250 km>450 kmAzimuth coverage360o360oElevation coverage -20o to +85o -20o to +85oWeight above deck500 kg per face2000 kg per faceWeight below deck1300 kg4000 kgAntenna size1x2 m3x3 m
Operators
Sa'ar 5-class corvette (only on INS Lahav) Sa'ar 6-class corvette
ROKS Marado
See also EL/M-2258 ALPHA (rotating variant of ELM-2248) EL/M-2080 Green Pine EL/M-2238 STAR Barak 8 Phased array Active electronically scanned array Active phased array radar AN/SPY-3 AN/SPY-6 OPS-24 OPS-50 SAMPSON Selex RAT-31DL Selex RAN-40L Type 346 Radar
References