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AN/TPQ-49 Lightweight Counter Mortar Radar (LCMR)

AN/TPQ-49 Lightweight Counter Mortar Radar (LCMR) systems sense enemy fire and warn the force so they can respond. The AN/TPQ-49 counterfire radar provides continuous 360 degree surveillance and 3-D RAM location using a non-rotating, electronically steered antenna. Its full azimuth coverage allows it to simultaneously detect and track multiple rounds fired from separate locations within a 315 square kilometer surveillance area. It can also be configured to scan less than 360 degrees, providing focused sector coverage with more frequent update rates.

Once RAM is detected, the radar sends an early warning message indicating a round is incoming. After sufficient data is collected to enable an accurate point of origin, the weapon’s location is reported back to an integrated command and control station or short range air defense system for a counterfire response.

The AN/TPQ-49 counterfire radar has been designed for use by expeditionary forces. Its predecessor, AN/TPQ-48, was originally developed as a quick reaction capability for the United States Special Operations Command to be compatible with airborne operations and deployable by parachute. Subsequently, it was upgraded in performance capabilities and ruggedized for the US Army to become the AN/TPQ-49 counterfire radar.

The radar can be assembled or disassembled quickly by two soldiers in 20 minutes. It mounts on a tripod using lightweight antenna hardware, allowing for rapid emplacement and ease of relocation. It is small in size and consumes low prime power, making it ideal for low profile operation. It can be deployed in challenging locations previously unavailable to traditional counterfire radars, making it an ideal solution for force protection at Forward Operating Bases.

Personnel at Tobyhanna Army Depot test and repair LCMRs using a first-of-its-kind mechanical live-fire test simulator (MLFTS). The test simulator is the only one in the Army. Tobyhanna's Radar Center of Excellence is the largest and most comprehensive capability in the organic industrial base for all types of radar

The AN/TPQ-49 counterfire radar has proven to be exceptionally effective at detecting and locating the RAM threat that is facing troops today. The system is currently deployed by military forces around the globe. The Australian Army is using the system operationally. The trained operators have been using the LCMRs for more than two years, and have an evolved understanding of its performance and functionality. THey gotg good results with it in theater. It has good reliability; it's highly maneuverable and highly maintainable.