Leonardo has signed a contract with Italian TELEDIFE for the development and delivery of the first four next generation radars designed to counter long range ballistic threats of up to 3,000 kilometres. The agreement represents a major step forward in the development and implementation of the Michelangelo Dome advanced integrated defence system, officially unveiled in November.
The signing marks the second milestone for the Michelangelo Dome programme following the successful first qualification launch of the Italian SAMP/T NG surface-to-air missile system in early December. That launch featured Leonardo’s latest-generation KRONOS Grand Mobile High Power Radar Sensor.
Under the contract, Leonardo will supply the Ground Based Radar and the Mobile Long Range Radar, both based on fully digital AESA GaN technology. These systems are designed to provide extended detection range, advanced surveillance and early warning, accurate identification and timely tracking, while supporting real-time tactical picture updates and integration in multidomain scenarios.
The new radars are intended to meet integrated ballistic defence requirements and are positioned among Europe’s most advanced radar sensor capabilities. With this programme, Italy becomes the first European country to field national integrated air and missile defence capabilities against emerging long range threats.