Canada is interested in integrating a new network of Raytheon-developed high-frequency surface-wave radars, used to monitor shipping traffic on the approaches of the St Lawrence seaway, for use with its future medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned air vehicles.
An initial operational capability is expected to be in place late this year through the upgrade of two prototype radars with a range of more than 200km (110nm) at Cape Bonavista and Cape Race, Newfoundland. The prototypes were used to explore co-ordinated maritime surveillance operations with manned and unmanned aircraft as part of the Canadian Forces' Atlantic littoral intelligence and surveillance exercise last August.
The full network is expected to add a further four or five sites, leading up to the mouth of the St Lawrence seaway, which connects ocean-going shipping to the Great Lakes. The network could also be expanded in the longer term to include radar sites on Canada's Pacific coastline.
PETER LA FRANCHI / MEDICINE HAT
Source: Flight International
