Spain is developing a new counter-battery radar capability intended to improve the detection and tracking of hostile indirect fire on the battlefield. The planned system, called the Radar for Locating the Origin of Indirect Fire (RALOFI), is designed to detect artillery shells, rockets, and mortar rounds while simultaneously determining the location from which they were launched. By tracing the trajectory of incoming projectiles, the radar can quickly identify enemy firing positions, enabling rapid counter-battery responses by friendly forces. The RALOFI radar will employ a fully electronically scanned array configuration, allowing the system to scan large areas quickly and manage multiple targets at the same time. This architecture eliminates the need for mechanical movement in the radar antenna, improving reaction time and reliability. A key technological element of the system is its use of gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor components. GaN technology is widely recognized for delivering higher efficiency and greater power output than traditional semiconductor materials, enabling radar systems to achieve longer detection ranges and improved tracking precision. In addition to the radar hardware, the system will integrate software-defined radio communications, providing flexible and adaptable data transmission capabilities. These communications technologies enable operators to modify system parameters through software updates rather than hardware modifications, helping the radar adapt to evolving operational environments. The combination of GaN electronics and advanced communication systems is expected to enhance the radar’s ability to operate effectively even when facing electronic warfare interference or signal disruption. Through the development of RALOFI, Spain aims to strengthen its defensive capabilities by ensuring faster detection of indirect fire threats and providing accurate targeting data for counter-battery operations.
