RTX's Raytheon Delivers Advanced PhantomStrike Radar to South Korea for FA-50 Aircraft
- Raytheon, a subsidiary of RTX, delivered the first PhantomStrike radar to South Korea for the FA-50 aircraft.
- PhantomStrike radar features advanced Gallium Nitride technology for high efficiency and long-range detection capabilities.
- RTX emphasizes innovation in defense tech, positioning PhantomStrike as crucial for modern air combat and military operations.
### Raytheon Delivers Cutting-Edge PhantomStrike Radar to South Korea
On October 20, 2025, Raytheon, a subsidiary of RTX, announces the successful delivery of the first PhantomStrike® radar to Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for integration into the FA-50 Light Combat Aircraft fleet. This delivery marks a significant milestone in advancing military technology, specifically in radar systems. PhantomStrike is a state-of-the-art, fully air-cooled radar that utilizes Gallium Nitride technology, which allows for high efficiency and enhanced performance. With its long-range detection and targeting capabilities, the radar is designed to provide aircrews with a tactical advantage in complex combat environments while being priced at approximately half the cost of traditional fire control radars.
The design of PhantomStrike incorporates a faster, more agile digital beam that improves its resistance to jamming, making it particularly valuable for modern combat scenarios. Dan Theisen, president of Raytheon’s Advanced Products and Solutions, emphasizes that this radar system not only enhances the operational effectiveness of aircraft but also represents a shift in how military forces can leverage technology to maintain superiority in the air. PhantomStrike is versatile, suitable for various platforms, including uncrewed aircraft, light-attack aircraft, fighter jets, and helicopters. Its lightweight design, combined with the power of a fighter radar, allows for improved performance without the burden of heavier systems.
Raytheon has conducted successful flight tests demonstrating PhantomStrike's capabilities, including air-to-air and air-to-ground operations. The company has also noted that the radar has received export approval as a Direct Commercial Sale product. With production facilities located in Mississippi, Arizona, and Scotland, Raytheon is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for advanced defense technologies. As military operations increasingly rely on sophisticated radar systems, PhantomStrike is poised to play a crucial role in modernizing air combat capabilities for partner nations like South Korea.
### Broader Industry Context
In the context of a growing global demand for advanced military technologies, the delivery of PhantomStrike aligns with trends in the unmanned systems market, projected to reach USD 43.54 billion by 2030. This growth highlights the increasing reliance on autonomous systems in defense applications, emphasizing the strategic value of innovation in military solutions.
RTX continues to lead in delivering cutting-edge defense technologies, further solidifying its position as a key player in the aerospace and defense industry. As the demand for next-generation radar systems grows, Raytheon's advancements with PhantomStrike underscore the importance of investing in innovative capabilities to enhance military readiness and effectiveness on the battlefield.
