MİLDAR was developed to meet the critical requirement for a national helicopter fire control radar capable of operating in modern, high-threat battlefields. It ensures mission effectiveness in adverse weather conditions such as fog, rain, dust, smoke, and battlefield obscurants where electro-optical systems may suffer performance degradation.

Operational Purpose and Role

The primary role of MİLDAR is to provide attack helicopters with:

• Long-range target detection
• Accurate target localization
• Multi-target tracking
• Fire control solutions for guided munitions

In modern combat environments, survivability depends on detecting and engaging threats before entering enemy engagement envelopes. MİLDAR supports stand-off engagement doctrine, especially in anti-armor warfare, close air support, armed reconnaissance, and convoy protection missions.

Doctrine and Concept of Operations

MİLDAR operates as a core sensor node within the helicopter’s sensor fusion architecture. Radar data is transmitted to:

• The mission computer
• Fire control systems
• Cockpit multi-function displays

The Track While Scan TWS capability allows simultaneous tracking of multiple targets while continuously scanning for new threats. This significantly reduces pilot workload and shortens reaction time in high-density threat environments.

Platform Architecture

MİLDAR uses AESA technology operating in the millimeter-wave band, enabling:

• High-resolution ground mapping
• Detection of small and low-RCS targets
• Moving Target Indication MTI
• Accurate target discrimination

The radar can be integrated in nose-mounted configurations or, depending on platform design, mast-mounted configurations. The solid-state AESA architecture improves reliability by eliminating mechanical scanning components.

Survivability and Protection Approach

The radar incorporates Low Probability of Intercept LPI characteristics through frequency agility and narrow beam operation. Operating in the millimeter-wave band reduces detection likelihood by enemy electronic support measures systems.

These features are particularly critical for attack helicopters operating against advanced integrated air defense systems.

Accuracy and Engagement Process

Upon detecting a target, the system:

• Classifies the target
• Determines precise coordinates
• Generates fire control solutions
• Supports guided weapon engagement

The ability to track multiple targets enables coordinated engagement of several armored vehicles within a short timeframe, significantly increasing mission lethality.

Integrated Ecosystem

MİLDAR has been associated in public sources with platforms such as the T129 ATAK and the ATAK-II T929.

It is designed to operate in conjunction with:

• Anti-tank guided missiles
• Network-enabled command and control systems
• Electro-optical targeting systems

Advantages Against Modern Threats

Advantages:

• All-weather operational capability
• Detection through dust, smoke, and obscurants
• Multi-target tracking and engagement
• Built-in electronic warfare resilience

Limitations:

• Millimeter-wave radars typically offer shorter detection ranges compared to lower frequency surveillance radars
• Exact range and tracking capacity figures are not publicly disclosed

Variants and Program Status

Publicly available information does not provide detailed block configurations or export versions. Certain technical performance data remains undisclosed.

Detailed Technical Information

Radar Type

• Active Electronically Scanned Array AESA
• Millimeter-wave frequency band

Operating Modes

• Air target detection
• Ground target detection
• Moving Target Indication MTI
• Track While Scan TWS
• Terrain Profiling ARPO

Performance Parameters

• Maximum detection range: Not publicly disclosed
• Simultaneous tracking capacity: Not publicly disclosed
• Reaction time: Not publicly disclosed

Sensing and Detection Capability

• High-resolution ground mapping
• Small target detection
• Air and ground target discrimination

Engagement and Fire Control

• Fire control data generation for guided munitions
• Multi-target engagement support

Electronic Warfare Resilience

• Frequency agility
• Low Probability of Intercept LPI
• Narrow beam AESA architecture

Integration and Deployment

• Nose-mounted helicopter configuration
• Optional mast-mounted integration depending on platform
• Compact and lightweight design

Crew and Operational Concept

• Operated by pilot and/or weapon systems officer
• Automated modes reduce crew workload

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MİLDAR used for?

• MİLDAR is a helicopter fire control radar designed to detect, track, and classify ground and air targets, and provide engagement data for guided weapons. It enhances both survivability and lethality in combat operations.

What is the detection range of MİLDAR?

• Exact range figures have not been publicly disclosed. As a millimeter-wave radar, it is optimized for tactical engagement distances typical of attack helicopter missions.

How many targets can it track simultaneously?

• The precise number has not been publicly released. However, the radar supports multi-target tracking through its TWS capability.

What types of targets can it detect?

• Main battle tanks
• Armored vehicles
• Low-altitude aerial targets
• Stationary and moving ground targets

Is it resistant to electronic warfare?

• Yes. Frequency agility and LPI characteristics provide inherent resistance to detection and jamming.

Is it a mobile system?

• It is an airborne system integrated into helicopters, not a ground-based fixed radar.

What are its international equivalents?

Comparable systems include:

• Longbow radar by Lockheed Martin
• Helicopter radar solutions by Leonardo S.p.A.

MİLDAR represents Türkiye’s indigenous solution in this category.

Sources

• Meteksan Savunma official product information
• Publicly available statements from Turkish defense authorities
• Defense industry exhibition materials