AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel

Using an X-band range-gated, pulse-doppler system, the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel is an acquisition and tracking surveillance three-dimensional radar which is used to alert and queue Short Range Air Defense (SHORAD) weapons to the locations of hostile targets approaching their front line forces. The AN/MPQ is deployed with forward area air defense units of the US Army and USMC. The Sentinel automatically detects, tracks, identifies, classifies, and reports airborne threats in a range of 75 kilometers. This surveillance radar provides early warning to ground crews by supporting engagement of threats including helicopters, high-speed attack aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles. Over 200 systems have been ordered world-wide, with more than 100 delivered or in production.

The new upgraded versions of the AN/MPQ-64 is fitted with new, modern COTS based electronics which ensures greater performance while implementing a low risk technology insertion. This improved Sentinel radar provides a significant range extension improvement, which means improved target detection at extended ranges and improved target detection for rotary wing and fixed wing aircraft. The AN/MPQ-64 was developed by Raytheon at its Fullerton, California facility.