Northrop to begin subsystem testing of space radar after design review

Northrop Grumman will start testing subsystems on a new space radar after having approved the major system design, the company announced May 30.

Having completed a Deep Advanced Radar Capability critical design review, the company will now focus on factory acceptance testing, which will verify the readiness of the system’s components and reduce program risks associated with supply chain and technical performance, Northrop spokeswoman Stephanie Flyger said.

The company plans to conduct testing over the next year as system components are manufactured and testing approaches will vary by subsystem elements, according to Flyger.

“Each testing is designed to verify subsystem performance against requirements,” she said.

The tests will be conducted by the suppliers, with oversight by Northrop and government officials.

Deep Advanced Radar Capability will monitor the rapidly evolving geosynchronous orbital environment in all weather 24/7, providing the military with enhanced space domain awareness, according to the announcement.

“DARC will be the first to provide an all-weather, at all times capability in support of the space domain awareness mission that’s critical to national and global security,” Northrop Vice President of Integrated National Systems Pablo Pezzimenti said.

In addition, the program will also serve as an additional sensor for the military’s surveillance network to monitor deep space objects and provide full global coverage.