Raytheon's SharpSight Radar: Revolutionizing Marine Corps F/A-18 Capabilities with Next-Gen AESA Technology

In a significant stride for modern defense technology, Raytheon, an RTX business, has announced the commencement of full-rate production for its cutting-edge AN/APG-79(V)4 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, famously known as SharpSight. This pivotal moment, unfolding at Raytheon's advanced manufacturing facility in Forest, Mississippi, marks a new era for the U.S.

Marine Corps' F/A-18C/D Hornet fighter jet fleet, promising an unparalleled leap in operational capabilities and pilot awareness.

The SharpSight radar isn't just an upgrade; it's a transformation. Engineered as a compact yet robust version of Raytheon’s widely successful AN/APG-79 AESA radar, which already equips other F/A-18 variants and the formidable EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft, the AN/APG-79(V)4 brings next-generation performance to the C/D model Hornets.

Its AESA architecture provides pilots with a host of advantages, including vastly improved air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, superior reliability, and the power to perform multiple missions simultaneously without compromise.

For the U.S. Marine Corps, the integration of SharpSight radars into their venerable F/A-18C/D fleet is nothing short of revolutionary.

These advanced systems are crucial for extending the operational life of the Hornets, allowing them to remain at the forefront of combat readiness for years to come. Pilots will benefit from significantly enhanced situational awareness, enabling them to detect, track, and engage threats with greater precision and speed in increasingly complex operational environments.

The radar's capabilities contribute directly to safer missions and more effective engagements, solidifying the Hornet's role as a vital asset in national defense.

Raytheon’s legacy in radar technology is extensive, with decades of innovation in AESA systems. The AN/APG-79(V)4 program leverages this deep expertise, ensuring that the Marine Corps receives a radar system that is not only state-of-the-art but also proven in its foundational design.

The production start signifies the successful culmination of rigorous development and testing, paving the way for rapid deployment and integration into the fleet. This move underscores RTX's commitment to delivering critical technologies that enhance the safety and effectiveness of military personnel worldwide.

As production ramps up, the SharpSight radar stands as a testament to American innovation and engineering prowess.

It represents a strategic investment in the future of naval aviation, guaranteeing that the F/A-18C/D Hornet will continue to dominate the skies and support ground operations with unmatched clarity and capability. The enhanced radar will undoubtedly play a crucial role in maintaining air superiority and providing critical support for global security operations for the U.S.

Marine Corps for years to come.