2 min read - 7 Apr, 2026
Saab UK receives £24m order for Giraffe 1X radars
Saab UK has received a £24m order from the UK Ministry of Defence for its Giraffe 1X compact radar system.
The multi-mission radar systems are being produced at Saab UK’s Centre of Radar Excellence on its Fareham campus, reinforcing the UK’s sovereign capability in advanced radar technology.
The radars have been ordered utilising funding from the UK-administered NATO Security Assistance and Training Ukraine (NSATU) Trust Fund.
This latest deal highlights the growing demand for Saab’s radar systems to strengthen weapon locating, air surveillance and counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) capabilities.
Giraffe 1X is manufactured at Saab UK’s Centre of Radar Excellence in Fareham / Picture: Saab UK
Andy Fraser, group managing director at Saab UK, said: “Giraffe 1X delivers a proven capability that can be rapidly deployed to meet evolving threats, including drones. By producing these systems in Fareham, we are not only delivering world-class technology but also supporting UK industry and sovereign capability – critical for supporting our allies with their defence.”
A spokesperson for the UK Ministry of Defence added: “This contract reflects our commitment to strengthening collective security through advanced radar technology needed to maintain operational advantage and protect shared interests.”
As a lightweight 3D multi-mission radar, Giraffe 1X can be used as a mobile, deployable, or fixed sensor that can be integrated into both land and naval platforms. The Giraffe 1X system is operated globally with production in Sweden and the UK. Its role ranges from force protection, weapon locating, ground-based air defence, and sea surface surveillance – offering unmatched flexibility for modern operations in multiple terrains.
