US tests AN/SPQ-9B’s PDD capability
The upgraded Periscope Detection and Discrimination (PDD) capabilities of the AN/SPQ-9B anti-ship missile defence radar have been successfully tested by the US Navy, it was announced on 17 March.
The PDD mode improves the submarine detection capabilities of the AN/SPQ-9B radar in support of the navy's overall anti-surface warfare efforts.
The live-fire testing of the system was conducted off the coast of California from USS Lake Champlain with the vessel's 5-inch guns to verify the new mode on the SPQ-9B while the crew underwent operator training.
The navy awarded a contract for AN/SPQ-9B production to Northrop Grumman in December to provide radar systems with the PDD mode to DDG 51-class destroyers.
Rear Adm. Jon A. Hill, program executive officer for Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS), said: ‘Our men and women have worked so hard to develop the technology for this key capability. We are eager to move forward with delivery of this upgrade to the fleet to improve their warfighting capability.’
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Virginia and Columbia-class submarine programmes sign long-term parts deals]()
Virginia and Columbia-class submarine programmes sign long-term parts deals
Parts from both US and Australian manufacturers will be used to build two critical submarine classes.
-
![Entire Black Sea “a contested maritime area”, says Commander of Estonian Navy]()
Entire Black Sea “a contested maritime area”, says Commander of Estonian Navy
The use of uncrewed vessels and vehicles has been crucial so far, but the Commander of the Estonian Navy warns against inflating their importance.
-
![US Navy names DDG 146 Arleigh Burke destroyer after former US Senator]()
US Navy names DDG 146 Arleigh Burke destroyer after former US Senator
The latest of the Flight III Arleigh Burke vessels has been named for a former US Senator and Vietnam veteran.
