Multi-mission phased array radar (MPAR) national radar R&D project

The MPAR research project will enable various agencies to address future airspace surveillance requirements. Weather radar has proven its value to the Nation since the installation of the current weather surveillance network began in 1990. In 2020, the WSR-88D radars forming this NEXRAD network will be 23 to 30 years old. In about the same time frame, most of the Nationpsilas FAA/USAF aircraft surveillance radars will also be nearing the end of their design life. Decisions on replacing or repairing and upgrading these National radar assets must be made over the next 10 to 15 years. Development of an affordable MPAR that provides weather and aircraft surveillance simultaneously (inset) will be of significant benefit to the Nation and the Federal and Local Agencies it would serve.