Northrop Grumman has entered a partnership with Taiwanese companies Ramatek, Champion Auto, and Vivian & Vincent International Trading to supply Taiwan with the AN/TPS-78 Advanced Capabilities (ADCAP) radar. The long-range surveillance system is widely deployed by the US Air Force and allied nations, and is expected to strengthen Taiwan’s ability to track a variety of aerial and maritime threats.
The radar employs S-band technology, a frequency range chosen to minimize interference in dense electromagnetic environments. Its stacked beam configuration enables simultaneous detection of targets at multiple altitudes, ensuring coverage of both high-flying aircraft and low-level threats under all weather conditions. With a maximum reach of 240 nautical miles, it provides flexible scanning rates of 5 or 10 seconds, meeting the demands of missions such as rapid intercept control and tactical ballistic missile tracking.
Mobility is a core advantage of the AN/TPS-78 ADCAP. The system’s compact design allows for transportation by C-130 aircraft, helicopters, trucks, or trains, while a four-person crew can deploy it in less than half an hour. Additional features include automated tracking systems and advanced algorithms tailored for drone detection and maritime surveillance, ensuring continuous monitoring while reducing false detections.
The agreement underscores Taiwan’s commitment to modernizing its air defense network with versatile, mobile solutions. By leveraging partnerships with local firms, Northrop Grumman is ensuring streamlined delivery and sustainment while enhancing the island’s readiness against evolving regional threats.
