Singapore Airshow 2026: Singapore to acquire Giraffe 1X radar

The Giraffe 1X, seen here on a high-mobility vehicle. Singapore is acquiring the Giraffe 1X radar and will mount the system on the VAMTAC vehicle. (Saab)

Singapore is acquiring the Saab Giraffe 1X to replace its Portable Search and Target Acquisition Radar (PSTAR).

The development was revealed by the Chief of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Major General Kelvin Fan Sui Siong, in a written reply to questions from the media ahead of the Singapore Airshow 2026.

“The Giraffe 1X will enhance our ability to detect a wider range of aerial threats, including small drones, and will provide vital short-range surveillance to support the army's operations,” said Maj Gen Fan.

“To further improve mobility and expand air-defence coverage, we will also acquire the URO Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctico (VAMTAC) vehicle, which will mount our RBS-70 or Giraffe 1X,” the chief added.

PSTAR is a portable battlefield radar developed by Lockheed Martin and it is also referred to as the AN/PPQ-2.

It is a compact, lightweight L-band radar designed for early warning and target acquisition purposes.

In Singapore Army service, PSTAR typically works alongside units deploying the RBS-70 manportable short-range air-defence system.

Meanwhile, the Giraffe 1X is a compact, lightweight radar designed for rapid deployment and high mobility.

Weighing less than 150 kg and capable of being mounted on light vehicles such as VAMTAC, it offers a 360° surveillance capability against a wide spectrum of aerial threats including small, low-flying drones; helicopters; and fast-moving aircraft.

The Giraffe 1X can also provide early warning of incoming rockets, artillery, and mortars.

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