The U.S. Army Product Manager for Radars (PdM Radars) awarded a contract yesterday to Lockheed Martin for the AN/TPQ-53 Firefinder Radar.

The award is a Firm Fixed Price contract for $881 million with the base year and two option years, which could yield up to 51 systems.

The base year is $166 million that will produce 12 systems. All training and testing support to include a Limited User Test as well as Initial Operational Test and Evaluation is covered by the contract.

The AN/TPQ-53 (formerly referred to as the EQ 36) provides improved operational and physical functionality over existing AN/TPQ 36 radars systems. The radar detects in-flight projectiles at greater rangers and determines and communicates the firing point locations with a high degree of accuracy.

It does this with a low false alarm rate, and with an improved coverage pattern. This capability allows for more effective detection and counter-battery actions.

"The AN/TPQ-53 will bolster the level of protection for Soldiers in the field, by expanding basic counterfire radar capabilities in both 90 and 360 degree modes," said Lt. Col. Robert Thomas, PdM Radars.

"This is a great example of the Army and Industry coming together to ultimately deliver a system that will greatly enhance situational awareness by providing the precise location of hostile indirect fire weapons."

Additional information regarding the AN/TPQ-53 program will be made available following a debriefing period.