US Army Buys Saab Giraffe 1X Radars for Air Defense

Defense Feeds – The US Army buys Saab Giraffe 1X Radars worth nearly $46 million from Swedish defense manufacturer Saab, marking a major step toward modernizing battlefield air surveillance capabilities. 

The new contract covers an undisclosed number of radar systems and will support both US defense operations and international security cooperation partners. 

Deliveries of the compact 3D Giraffe 1X radars are scheduled to begin in 2026, enhancing air defense readiness across multiple operational theaters.

Saab explained that the agreement strengthens its long-term collaboration with the US Armed Forces in developing integrated radar solutions for evolving threats. 

Company officials noted that the Giraffe 1X radar system offers combat-proven performance, capable of detecting and tracking drones, cruise missiles and low-flying aircraft across complex battle environments. 

With this acquisition, the US Army aims to bolster its sensor network and expand its precision detection capability against a rapidly growing array of modern aerial threats.

Compact Design for Swift Deployment

The Giraffe 1X radar has been engineered as a highly portable, multi-role sensor that can be deployed within minutes on a wide range of platforms. 

Weighing under 150 kilograms (approximately 330 pounds), the system can be installed on vehicles, naval vessels, or stationary ground structures without heavy logistical burden.

Unlike larger, fixed radar systems, the Giraffe 1X provides flexible options for mobile forces requiring rapid coverage of airspace in fast-evolving operational environments.

Its advanced digital architecture enables the radar to deliver continuous 360-degree surveillance with precise tracking of numerous targets simultaneously.

Saab’s development team highlighted that this adaptability makes the radar suitable for both expeditionary operations and homeland security missions where mobility and quick setup times are critical.

Enhanced Detection of Modern Threats

At the core of the Giraffe 1X’s capability is its ability to identify and track small aerial targets such as rotorcraft or unmanned aerial systems (UAS), which have become an increasing threat across global conflict zones. 

The radar integrates seamlessly into larger air defense networks, transmitting data to command-and-control units in real time for faster response decisions.

Its multi-mission functionality allows operators to not only track incoming missiles and aircraft but also detect and classify drones engaged in surveillance or attack roles. 

This makes it a valuable tool in counter-drone warfare, which continues to dominate modern defense strategies.

Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab US, noted that the Giraffe 1X gives the US and allied forces a critical edge: “These radar systems provide a combat-proven platform capable of responding swiftly to a wide range of aerial threats. 

They ensure our partners remain ahead of adversaries in both technology and operational capability.”

Proven Performance Among Allied Nations

The Giraffe 1X has already been operational with several NATO and European defense forces. 

Countries including Latvia, Sweden and the United Kingdom have deployed versions of the radar for border surveillance and integrated air defense applications. 

Saab’s growing international user base underscores the system’s reliability and adaptability across varied climates and terrains.

With the US Army now joining the list of operators, the deal strengthens transatlantic defense collaboration and demonstrates continued confidence in Saab’s radar technology. 

Analysts suggest that the acquisition aligns with Washington’s push to enhance sensor coverage and interoperability with partner nations supporting collective security missions.

The radar’s proven record in detecting low-observable airborne targets establishes it as a central component in future short-range and base protection systems. 

By adding the Giraffe 1X to its inventory, the Army moves closer to its goal of a layered air defense network capable of handling threats ranging from drones to precision-guided munitions.

Saab’s new agreement highlights the growing need for flexible radar systems that merge portability, sophisticated tracking capability, and fast connectivity with modern command networks, which are vital to today’s networked battlefield.