Aries

Aries is a family of Low Probability of Intercept (LPI), I-band radars designed for use on surface ships, submarines and coastal installations. Designed by Spanish firm Indra, the radar family operates on novel Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) principles, providing high range resolution of a few meters.

Modular design includes optional configurations for various mission requirements, such as integrating co-mounted Identification Friend-or-Foe (IFF) antennas or pulsed transceivers. Several commercial, off-the-shelf (COTS) components, including digital processing boards, are integrated for enhanced flexibility.

The system is centered on a double-sided antenna, pedestal, transmitter and receiver (APTR) structure which consists of an antenna array, FMCW transceiver on a pedestal mounting and a high-power amplifier unit. The Aries double-sided antenna is a single housing for separate transmission and reception antennae. A process and control unit, motor control unit, network connection unit and display unit are also integrated.

The system's transmit and receive unit, located above the pedestal, generates and processes radar signal. The high-power amplifier sits above the transmit and receive unit, enhancing the radar signal. Both systems are controlled by the process and control unit.

When operating standalone, the process and control unit performs all control, tracking and signal processing tasks. The unit consists of several digital boards operating simultaneously. Tracking and data association algorithms utilize image processing techniques for improved quality. Through the dedicated communication boards, the unit can interface with multiple operator display consoles as well as devices and subsystems such as GPS, gyrocompasses and speed logs, ensuring interoperability with a wide range of platforms. Display units allow operators to track radar image presentation, target status and range profile through simple menus and controls.

A motor control unit associated with the APTR system motor enables operators to manage the radar's turning speed and direction. The motor control unit communicates with the process and control unit to share relevant information on radar motion and target location.

The network communication unit facilitates connection between the radar and other subsystems including display units and process and control unit. Transmission speeds can be increased or throttled through the installation of multiple fiber optic or copper cable connections.

In production.

Initial development was undertaken by Indra Sistemas S.A. in conjunction with Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, with support from the Spanish Ministry of Defense. Antenna development was assisted by Spanish firm RYMSA. While the radar was initially designed to serve as a navigation, surveillance and identification system, it's properties were expanded to include coastal and aerial surveillance.

On May 31, 2007, Indra announced it had received several contracts from the Spanish government to supply surveillance and electronic defense equipment aboard the Strategic Project Ship JUAN CARLOS I and the Combat Supply Ship CANTABRIA. The contracts were valued at over EUR28 million (US$38 million). Work included the integration of Aries radar systems aboard both vessels.

On June 3, 2008, the company announced it had been awarded multiple contracts amounting to EUR40 million (US$62 million) from the Spanish navy to install electronic and defense systems including two Aries radars aboard the ALVARO DE BAZAN-class frigate, CRISTOBAL COLON. Work was expected to take around 4.5 years.

Indra was subcontracted by Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) to install Aries-S radars aboard Indonesia's three NAGAPASA-class submarines in February 2013. The subcontract was worth EUR10 million (US$13.4 million) and also covered the integration of the Pegaso radar signal detection system.

Indra Sistemas, S.A., Madrid, Spain

 Indonesia
   Navy
      submarines           (NAGAPASA class)

 Spain
   Navy
      amphibious           (JUAN CARLOS I class)
      auxiliary            (CANTABRIA class)
      frigate              (ALVARO DE BAZAN class)(CRISTOBAL COLON only)
      patrol               (METEORO class)
      submarines           (ISAAC PERAL class)
      

 PERFORMANCE
   Frequency               I band (9.2-9.5 GHz)

Aries-NAV

The baseline navigation and surface surveillance variant of the Aries family. The Aries-NAV is capable of detecting surface or land targets, with a minor aerial detection capability. This variant is fitted to the amphibious assault ship, JUAN CARLOS I.

Aries-CS

The Aries Coastal Surveillance (CS) is designed for installation on land facilities to track nearby targets at sea.

Aries-S

The Aries Submarine variant is a modified version of the system designed for use on submarines. This variant is built with a compact, non-hull penetrating design. The transceiver has been redesigned to fit inside a submarine mast. Indra bills this variant as "practically undetectable" due to its low-level signal output. This is the variant installed on the ISAAC PERAL-class and NAGAPASA-class submarines. The Aries-S is offered as part of Indra's Naval Suite for Submarines.

Aries-PAR

The Aries Precision Approach Radar (PAR) is designed to assist with helicopter and aircraft approach and handling. Provides information on elevation and azimuth of incoming air and rotorcraft. This variant is fitted on the JUAN CARLOS I amphibious assault ship.

Aries-SAAS

The Aries-SAAS variant detects and determines the ranges and bearings of helicopters, providing control and guidance support as well as early warning for approaching aerial targets, including missiles. Electronic tilt techniques allow the antenna to automatically adjust its tilt, improving flexibility.