[ Post a Response | The SteelNavy.Com Message Board ]
Posted by Darren on July 28, 2026, 7:32:29, in reply to "Re: Future X-Band Radar (FXR)"
I'm only sharing what I find online from official sources. My point is the SPQ-9 is not an air search radar. Yes it can be used for low flying targets, but it's main function is surface search and the main reason it was developed was fire control.
Most radars can do multiple roles, they just need the right connections and software.
The US has often developed new equipment using older designations. It's a way of getting funding without extra approvals and paperwork.
For example, the SPS-48E is a completely different radar than the the 48C, mainly because they couldn't get development money for a 'new' radar. 
Previous Message
SPQ-9B is not only part of the gun fire control system. This was only the case for the SPQ-9A.
As you wrote, the SPQ-9B is also used to detect and track low-flying missiles and aircraft. Its better precision, based on shorter wavelengths (X band), complements the S band SPY-1 or SPY-6.
I wonder, why for very different radars similar names are used - both for the SPQ-1 and SPS-73 "variants". In reality, these are different radars.
Responses
« Index