HENSOLDT secures contract to deliver radar systems for Space Centre Australia
Sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT has signed a contract with Space Centre Australia (SCA) to deliver two high-performance Air Surveillance Radar - Next Generation systems (ASR-NG), along with a 20-year sustainment plan to bolster Australia's critical air surveillance capabilities.
Image courtesy HENSOLDT
The total order volume of the initial phase is worth around 20 million euros (around $30 million AUD). Under the contract terms, HENSOLDT will deliver the two ASR-NG radars by the end of 2026, with sustainment services starting in 2027.
The primary radar of the ASR-NG has special signal processing technology for long-range airspace surveillance and the suppression of false signals from wind turbines. The 3D-capable radar thus enables the safe guidance of all aircraft within a radius of 120 NM and up to altitudes of 50,000 feet. The MSSR 2000 I secondary radar integrated in the ASR-NG ensures automatic identification of aircraft identified by transponder signals. It operates in accordance with the "Mode S" air traffic control standard, which entails a further improvement in interrogations for aircraft identification. The newly acquired radar units will support both high-altitude and low-altitude airspace management, aligning with Space Centre Australia’s mission to lead in space safety and aerospace industry innovation.
As part of the signing ceremony held in Taufkirchen, HENSOLDT welcomed James Palmer, CEO of Space Centre Australia, and Scott Morrison, Chairman of Space Centre Australia and former Prime Minister of Australia. This significant contract positions Australia to become the largest operator of ASR-NG systems globally, with a total of 11 units.
Mark Novak, Managing Director of HENSOLDT Australia, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership, stating: “This milestone reflects the culmination of extensive collaboration between HENSOLDT and Space Centre Australia. We are excited about this enduring partnership, which will ensure the ASR-NG provides robust air surveillance capabilities for years to come.”
Hon. Scott Morrison, Non-Executive Chairman of SPACE CENTRE AUSTRALIA said: “The establishment of SCA’s Spaceport in Cape York will not just provide the infrastructure needed to make Australia a leading nation in the global space industry, but it will importantly and significantly enhance Australia’s surveillance and aviation domain management capabilities in remote Northern Australia, to support the work of our defence forces and border protection agencies.”
James Palmer, CEO of SPACE CENTRE AUSTRALIA said: “The purchase of these HENSOLDT radar systems marks a significant milestone in strengthening the infrastructure required for our aerospace operations, these units will deliver state-of-the-art air surveillance that not only ensures the safety of our launches but also reinforces our commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards for the global aerospace industry. We are excited to integrate HENSOLDT'S proven technology into our operations as we continue to develop our launch capabilities.”
HENSOLDT Australia has a proven track record in radar installation, maintenance, and testing across RAAF bases and naval platforms. This new contract will further strengthen HENSOLDT Australia’s role in supporting air traffic control (ATC) radars across the Asia-Pacific region. By leveraging its expertise in both radar and space technologies, the company is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of Space Centre Australia across Australia, the UK, and the USA.