Patria's passive radar enhances air surveillance capabilities
Defense company Patria has developed a passive radar system, MUSCL, capable of detecting small, low-flying targets like drones. The system utilizes existing radio waves, making it difficult for adversaries to detect.
Helsinki – Defense manufacturer Patria has developed a passive radar system, dubbed Patria MUSCL, designed to improve air surveillance, particularly in detecting targets such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The system operates by using existing radio signals in the environment, such as those from radio and television broadcasts.
A key advantage over traditional active radars is MUSCL's invisibility. As the system does not transmit signals itself, it does not reveal its location to enemy electronic surveillance. This presents a significant benefit in modern warfare, where the use of drones has rapidly increased.
Patria MUSCL can provide 360-degree surveillance up to hundreds of kilometers away and can be used for air reconnaissance, border control, and protection of critical infrastructure. The system is capable of tracking over a hundred targets simultaneously. Its operating principle and low operating frequencies also enhance the detection of stealth aircraft, as processing reflected signals does not require the receiver to be co-located with the transmitter.
According to Patria, development work on the MUSCL system has been ongoing since 2010. The system's hardware is transportable and adaptable for demanding conditions, and its modularity allows for flexible updates as technology advances. The system is designed for unmanned, remote operation and produces standardized air surveillance data for various command systems.