Saab has secured a significant contract from NATO to extend the service life of the Arthur artillery locating radar systems operated by the Spanish Army. Valued at approximately 540 million Swedish kronor, or about $57 million, the deal is being handled through NATO’s Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), marking the first time one of Saab’s radar programs has been routed via this organization. The upgrade comes as Spain looks to reinforce its operational efficiency and maintain critical artillery-locating capabilities within NATO’s integrated defense network.
The modernization initiative will involve integrating advanced digital technologies to enhance the Arthur radar’s mobility, detection range, and precision. These upgrades will allow the system to identify and locate more enemy targets at greater distances while reducing its electronic profile, making it more survivable in modern conflicts. The life extension program is expected to provide Spain’s forces with higher operational mobility and precise counter-battery capability, both key to rapid and effective artillery response on the battlefield.
Highly mobile and largely automated, the Arthur system is designed for rapid deployment and withdrawal—capable of being packed up or ready for action in under two minutes. Its compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, as well as its ability to operate with minimal personnel, makes it ideally suited for frontline and fast-moving operations. In action, the Arthur radar tracks hostile artillery projectiles, determines enemy firing positions, supports counter-battery targeting, and compiles detailed impact data—helping secure advantage in both defense and offensive fire control missions.
Currently, the Arthur radar is in service with 12 nations, including Norway, Sweden, South Korea, the Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, and the UK. Notably, Sweden recently pledged five Arthur systems to Ukraine as part of its military aid, highlighting the radar’s ongoing importance in multinational defense cooperation.
