A Large Phased Array Radar (LPAR) is a powerful type of radar system that uses phased array technology to detect and track multiple objects—such as missiles, satellites, and aircraft—over long distances with high precision.
🔧 Key Features
Phased Array: Instead of rotating, it uses thousands of tiny antenna elements to steer the radar beam electronically.
Instantaneous Direction Change: Can rapidly switch its focus between targets without physically moving.
High Resolution: Excellent for detecting small or fast-moving objects.
Long Range: Can track targets thousands of kilometers away.
Multifunctional: Used for missile warning, space surveillance, and early warning systems.
📍 Notable LPAR Sites (U.S.)
Location
Use
Clear Air Force Station (Alaska)
Missile warning, space tracking
Beale AFB (California)
Ballistic missile early warning
Cape Cod AFS (Massachusetts)
Surveillance & missile tracking
Fylingdales (UK)
NATO missile detection
🛡️ Primary Uses
Missile Defense: Detects and tracks intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
Space Surveillance: Tracks satellites and space debris.
Early Warning Systems: Alerts military forces about incoming threats.
National Security: Integral part of NORAD and U.S. Missile Defense Agency infrastructure.
🔄 How It Works
Radar sends out beams.
Reflecting signals return from objects.
The system processes these returns to detect object position, speed, and trajectory.
