The U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command has awarded Harris Corporation a four-year contract to upgrade the Navy's long-range radar.

The contract, valued at $113 million, includes an initial $39 million order and three one-year options, and will upgrade the AN/SPS-48E radars to the more advanced SPS-48G models. The newer models use a modernized solid-state transmitter, enhancing detection capabilities for the Navy's fleet.

"The SPS-48 radar provides an essential surveillance capability for the U.S. Navy, which faces growing and increasingly more complex threats," Harris Electronic Warfare business unit president Rich Sorelle said of the upgrades. "The radar is expected to remain in operation through the year 2050, and Harris is committed to ensuring it remains effective and dependable throughout its service life."

The AN/SPS-8G long-range, three-dimensional Air Search Radar is planned for installation on a variety of naval warships, including Nimitz, America, Wasp and San Antonio class ships. The radar provides anti-ship missile detection, Air Intercept Control, and other defensive capabilities. Once installed, the radar can no longer be removed, effectively becoming part of the ship.

AN/SPS-48G kits are produced by Exelis, Inc.