The command of the Special Operations of the United States (SOCOM) has announced that it will equip its C-130 fleet, including the AC-130J, MC-130J and HC-130J models, with the APG-83 Radar Scalable Agile Beam Radar (Sabr) of the Northrop Groumman.
The program provides for the acquisition of 147 radar and components for 133 aircraft, as well as spare parts, marking a significant advancement in the surveillance, navigation and engagement capabilities of these platforms.
Currently, the fleet uses Legacy mechanical radar, such as theAN/APN-241without modern features essential for disputed environments. THE’APG-83already employed in F-16offers almost instant scan, high resolution SAR images, tracking of mobile targets and greater resistance to interference, significantly increasing the effectiveness of planes in surveillance, attack and electronic war operations, even in adverse weather conditions.
The update is considered strategic to expand the roles of the fleet beyond traditional anti -terrorism operations. THE’AC-130J can identify targets at greatest distance and operate in limited conditions for optical sensors, while the MC-130J It will acquire advanced navigation skills, long distance communication and electronic war.
The program integrates with other updates, such as radar AN/APQ-187 Silent Knightand reflects a long -term effort of the SOCOM To modernize the Hercules fleet with cutting -edge technologies.
Source: The Aviationist | Photo: x @defence_ida | This content was created with the help of the AI and reviewed by the editorial team
U.S. Special Operations Command has chosen Northrop Grumman’s APG-83 SABR to upgrade and replace the legacy radars on AC-130J, MC-130J and HC-130J aircraft. pic.twitter.com/631lqkQAS2
— International Defence Analysis (@Defence_IDA) September 1, 2025
