Radar Technology & Compact Radar Systems

At TNO, we develop advanced radar systems and the underlying technologies that make them possible. Our work in radar dates back to 1927, several years before TNO was formally established in 1932. Since then, we have built a strong track record and a broad, in-depth expertise spanning the entire radar domain.

Through continuous research, development and collaboration with government, industry and academia, we have developed deep knowledge across system concepts and architectures, antennas, monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs), and signal processing. This integrated expertise enables us to develop state-of-the-art sensor suites and compact radar systems that provide real-time intelligence at battle speed.

Radar Innovation at TNO provides the reliable information needed to operate effectively in complex and contested environments. Our focus is on translating advanced radar science into operational capabilities.

From concept to complete radar systems

What sets TNO apart is our ability to bring together all the expertise required to design and develop fully operational radar systems, from fundamental technologies to complete demonstrators and prototypes.

Our multidisciplinary teams combine expertise in system architecture, antenna design, RF electronics, integrated circuits, and advanced signal processing. This integrated approach allows radar innovations to move efficiently from initial concept to operational deployment.

Pushing the boundaries of radar performance

Building on nearly a century of radar expertise, our work focuses on two key areas:

• In Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) systems, we push the limits of performance, flexibility, and robustness. These technologies enable real-time tracking of extremely fast objects, persistent surveillance in complex and contested environments, and high-precision target discrimination. “By combining advanced hardware with intelligent signal processing, we enable radar systems that can detect and classify threats earlier, faster and with greater precision.”
• In parallel, we specialise in compact Frequency-Modulated Continuous-Wave (FMCW) radar systems, optimised for low size, weight, power and cost (SWaP-C). These compact radars support applications such as collision avoidance, small-target detection, including drones and birds, and high-resolution Earth observation in all weather conditions.

Designed for spaceborne, airborne and mobile platforms, our FMCW radar systems bring advanced sensing capabilities to satellites, aircraft, and unmanned systems.

By combining cutting edge radar technologies with fully operational systems, we deliver solutions that ensure emerging threats are detected early and reliabl, contributing to the safety and security of society, today and in the future.