KYIV : Ukraine has received the Lanza LTR-25 long-range tactical early warning radar system from Spain, expanding the country’s Western-supported air defense infrastructure. The system was developed and manufactured by Indra and is intended to enhance national airspace surveillance and early threat detection.
The transfer follows approval by Spain’s Council of Ministers in January 2026. The contract, valued at €37 million, covers production, delivery, integration, and logistical support through December 31, 2026.
Technical Characteristics
The Lanza LTR-25 is a fully solid-state, three-dimensional (3D) mobile radar operating in the L-band frequency spectrum. It employs phased-array architecture with digital beamforming (“pencil beam”) technology, enabling detection and tracking of hundreds of aerial targets simultaneously.
The radar’s instrumented detection range exceeds 450 kilometers (250 nautical miles). As a 3D radar, it measures range, azimuth, and altitude, providing precise target coordinates and flight path data for interceptor cueing within layered air defense networks.
Target Detection Capabilities
The system is designed to detect fixed-wing aircraft, rotary-wing platforms, ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and low-observable targets. It can also track small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including one-way attack drones such as the Shahed series.
Operation in the L-band improves detection of targets with reduced radar cross-sections, supporting long-range surveillance performance.
Electronic Warfare Resistance
The radar is configured to operate in environments affected by electronic warfare (EW). Its digital signal processing architecture, combined with frequency agility and adaptive beam control, supports resistance to jamming and signal interference.
Integration with Western Air Defense Systems
The Lanza LTR-25 is compatible with NATO-standard command, control, and communication protocols. It can integrate into Ukraine’s Western-supplied air defense systems and transmit real-time target data to missile units.
It supports interceptor platforms including:
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MIM-104 Patriot
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NASAMS
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IRIS-T SLM
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SAMP/T
This integration enhances situational awareness and engagement coordination across multi-layered air defense networks.
Mobility and Deployment
The system is designed for high tactical mobility. Radar components can be mounted on two transport trucks and are airlift-capable via the Lockheed C-130 Hercules.
Its configuration supports rapid deployment, target detection, data transmission to air defense units, and relocation as required.
Contract Scope
The €37 million agreement includes logistical support, technical assistance, spare parts, and sustainment services through the end of 2026.
The addition of the Lanza LTR-25 strengthens Ukraine’s long-range early warning capability within its integrated air defense structure.
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