The next generation Ceros combines Ku-band radar with electro-optical sensors and a laser rangefinder. It can track targets ranging from small, unmanned aircraft to fighter aircraft and supersonic missiles, supporting accurate and timely engagement decisions.
As part of the next generation 9LV Fire Control System (FCS), or integrated into a wider combat management system, Ceros provides tracking and fire-control data to support naval guns and surface-to-air missile systems.
Continuous Wave Illuminator configuration
The next generation Ceros is available in a Continuous Wave Illuminator (CWI) configuration. This provides an additional X-band channel for target illumination and control of semi-active missiles, while the Ku-band radar independently tracks the target.
CHASE – tracking low-flying targets
Ceros incorporates CHASE, a patented method for processing complex radar returns from low-flying targets, including sea-skimming missiles. The method addresses multipath effects, helping the system accurately distinguish targets and select the appropriate threat to engage.
Designed for demanding conditions
Ceros builds on more than 50 years of operational experience across different system versions and a long history of use by navies around the world in both Arctic and tropical waters. Saab continues to develop the system to address evolving operational requirements and emerging threats.
Radar design
The radar adapts its transmission and signal-processing approach to the prevailing clutter conditions and electronic countermeasures (ECM) threat. Depending on the situation, it can use different pulse patterns and processing modes, including pulse-Doppler processing, moving-target indication and pulse-to-pulse frequency agility.
Pulse repetition frequency and pulse width are selected according to target range. Digital reception and advanced signal processing provide flexibility in pulse length and waveform, supporting adaptation to changing threat conditions. Frequency-coded pulses and pulse compression help maintain high range resolution across the radar’s operating modes.
The radar incorporates electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM) features, including:
- Very low antenna sidelobes
- Wide bandwidth
- A large number of transmission frequencies
- Random frequency selection
- Lock-on-jam and track-on-jam capabilities