SAMPSON
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The SAMPSON is a multi-function radar produced by BAE Systems.
Originally developed by Siemens-Plessey the radar is a result of UK government's (DERA) investment in the MESAR demonstrator programme (Multi-function Electronically Scanned ARray.)
Conventional radars, consisting of a rotating transmitter and sensor, have limited power, are vulnerable to enemy jamming and perform only one function - with separate units therefore required for surveillance, tracking and targeting.
As an active array, SAMPSON uses software to shape and direct its beam allowing several functions to be carried out at once and, through adaptive waveform control, is virtually immune to enemy jamming. Active arrays have both longer range and higher accuracy than conventional radars.
The Royal Navy intended to deploy the SAMPSON MFR on its version of the Horizon CNGF - a collabaration with France and Italy to produce anti-air warfare frigates. Following delays and complications the UK withdrew and started its own Type 45 programme. The Type 45 destroyers will use the SAMPSON radar with the PAAMS missile system, which was also developed for the Horizon frigates.
The unmatched performance of both the SAMPSON radar and the PAAMS' Aster missiles will give the Royal Navy an unrivalled anti-air warfare capability to replace its long serving Type 42 destroyers from 2007.
SAMPSON operating modes
- Long and medium-range search
- Surface picture search
- High-speed horizon search
- High-angle search and track
- Multiple target tracking and multiple channel fire control.