Next-Generation SAR Radar for Manned Aircraft and UAVs
SpaceForest presents the upgraded HUSSAR POD SAR radar, designed for integration with crewed aircraft, helicopters, and large unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Airborne radar systems play a critical role in modern ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) missions. This solution combines high-resolution radar imaging with moving target detection (GMTI/MMTI/CCD), enabling continuous terrain monitoring and situational awareness in all weather conditions, at any time of day or night.
HUSSAR POD SAR radar, developed by SpaceForest, is specifically engineered for UAV platforms and crewed aircraft, supporting reliable surveillance, reconnaissance, and monitoring missions. Mounted under the wing or fuselage, the aerodynamic pod houses a lightweight yet highly capable radar sensor, able to detect terrain features and moving objects at ranges of up to 15 km.
Advanced Composite Housing for Demanding Missions
The latest HUSSAR POD version introduces an enhanced outer structure made of aramid fibre composite (Kevlar®). Kevlar, renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, is widely used in military protective systems, aerospace components, and impact-resistant constructions.
As a dielectric material, Kevlar ensures full electromagnetic compatibility, allowing radar waves from the onboard sensor to pass through the housing without attenuation or distortion. Compared to metal casings, this material also produces lower radar reflections, which can modestly reduce the radar signature of the housing itself.
The new housing enhances mechanical durability and operational lifespan, while maintaining the system’s lightweight design and aerodynamic efficiency.
Lightweight Airborne ISR System
Despite its robust construction, the entire system weighs under 10 kg, enabling integration with a wide range of ISR platforms for UAVs and crewed aircraft.
The radar operates in the 9–11 GHz frequency band and supports multiple operational modes, including:
- Stripmap SAR
- Spotlight-Strip SAR
- GMTI and MMTI moving target detection
- Change detection (CCD)
Real-time data transmission and interoperability with C4ISR systems allow HUSSAR POD to deliver actionable intelligence from the start of the mission.
Air Surveillance for Multiple Mission Types
HUSSAR POD SAR radar is designed for missions requiring reliable, continuous situational awareness, including:
- Border and maritime surveillance;
- Critical infrastructure monitoring;
- Detection of illegal activities;
- Disaster response and environmental monitoring;
- Military and special operations.
Explore the full range of HUSSAR radars
HUSSAR INTEGRATED
UAVs Integrated Variant
HUSSAR INTEGRATED is integrated directly into UAV or aircraft fuselages, reducing drag and extending mission endurance. Core radar functionalities, including terrain mapping, GMTI/MMTI and CCD, are maintained. Customization is possible to match platform-specific interfaces and operational needs, ensuring optimal performance.
HUSSAR DRONE
Multirotor UAV-Mountable Variant
HUSSAR DRONE is an ultralight SAR/GMTI radar for small and medium drones (5–10 kg payload). Mounted directly on the UAV frame, it provides high-quality terrain imaging, real-time monitoring, and detection of moving targets and changes (GMTI/MMTI, CCD). Its lightweight design allows rapid deployment and flexible mission execution in remote or urban environments.
Made in Poland
The radar system is entirely based on Polish engineering expertise from SpaceForest and XY-Sensing
Let’s connect
Looking for a high-performance SAR solution? We invite you to discuss how the HUSSAR POD can be adapted to your platform and mission profile. From initial integration to mission-specific configurations, our team provides the expert guidance necessary for successful ISR deployment.