A new expeditionary radar system for detecting and tracking drones, aircraft and missiles is being developed and supplied by Raytheon to the U.S. Air Force.

The initial engineering and manufacturing contract for three, three-dimensional expeditionary long range radar, or 3DELRR, is worth $19.5 million. The total contract, including all options, is worth an estimated $71.8 million, including the service's procurement of three additional radar systems and product support.

"By choosing Raytheon's 3DELRR solution, the Air Force is purchasing an affordable, exportable radar," said David Gulla, Vice President, Global Integrated Sensors at Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems. "Raytheon's 3DELRR design is interoperable with coalition systems and capable of meeting the requirements of many international customers."

Raytheon said the radar system will replace radars -- such as Vietnam-era AN/TPS-75s -- rendered obsolete by current and emerging threats.

Raytheon said its 3DELRR solution is a gallium nitride-based (GaN) radar that operates in the C-band radio frequency spectrum. The use of GaN boosts the radar's range and sensitivity, while using C-band provides flexibility since the band is relatively uncongested.

"As the U.S. and other countries look to replace aging battlefield radars with low-cost yet cutting edge and highly capable systems, Raytheon's 3DELRR can meet that growing demand," said Andrew Hajek, Raytheon's 3DELRR Program director.