Singapore Airshow 2026: Singapore begins search for successor to FPS-117 radar

Singapore's FPS-117 radar, which has been operating since 1998. (Republic of Singapore Air Force)

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is preparing to refresh one of the longest‑serving components of its early warning network.

Chief of the RSAF Major General Kelvin Fan has confirmed that the service is assessing options to replace its ageing FPS‑117 long‑range air surveillance radar.

In a written response issued to questions from the media ahead of the Singapore Airshow 2026, Maj Gen Fan noted that the radar has been operating since 1998.

He described the ongoing assessment as part of a broader, continuous enhancement of the RSAF's Island Air Defence (IAD) system, which knits together multilayered and networked sensors to provide round‑the‑clock protection of Singapore's airspace.

The FPS-117 has an effective detection range of up to 250 n miles (463 km).

While no details were provided on candidate systems or timelines, the radar replacement will form part of the RSAF's regular capability refresh cycle, which Maj Gen Fan said is vital to maintaining a force that is capable amid an increased threat spectrum.

Besides the FPS-117, the RSAF is also replacing its portable search and target acquisition radar (PSTAR), which has been in service for the past 25 years, with the Giraffe 1X radar from Saab.

The Giraffe 1X radar will be mounted on the URO Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctico (VAMTAC) vehicle, which is also being acquired by the RSAF.

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