Hensoldt to deliver TRML-4D and Spexer 2000 3D MkIII radars to Ukraine

An image of a TRML-4D radar deployed with IRIS-T SLM air-defence system. (Hensoldt)

German-based defence manufacturer Hensoldt has been contracted to deliver an undisclosed number of Spexer 2000 3D MkIII short-range and TRML-4D radars as part of a more than EUR340 million (USD398.4 million) package to strengthen Ukraine's air defences, according to a 24 July company press release.

The TRML-4D is a C-band (4–8 GHz) or NATO G-band active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar designed for ground-based air defence (GBAD). The system can detect and track around 1,500 targets within a radius of up to 250 km and at an altitude of up to 30 km. It can also classify different types of air targets including cruise missiles, unmanned aircraft systems (UASs), various aircraft, and helicopters.

As previously reported by Janes, in May 2024, six TRML-4D radars were sent to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). Over the course of 2023, Ukraine received eight standalone TRML-4D radars and four for its Diehl Defence IRIS-T surface-launched medium-range (SLM) air-defence systems. In 2022 four were delivered for Ukraine's GBAD systems.

The Spexer 2000 3D MkIII has an X-band frequency range and is designed for ground, sea, and low-flying air targets including UASs, unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), and missiles. It is capable of tracking more than 300 targets within a 120° sector.

Hensoldt said the Spexer 2000 is part of Rheinmetall's new Skyranger 30 cannon-based air-defence vehicle. With Skyranger 30 and IRIS-T SLS, respectively, the German Army and Luftwaffe will provide the Bundeswehr's Nah- und Nächstbereichsschutz (NNbS) short- and very short-range air defence. The NNbS contract was awarded in January 2024 to an Arbeitsgemeinschaft (ARGE) working group formed by Rheinmetall Electronics, Diehl Defence, and Hensoldt Sensors.