3D Expeditionary Long-Range Radar

The 3D Expeditionary Long-Range Radar (3DELRR) program is a major Air Force initiative aimed at modernizing the United States Air Force's principal long-range, ground-based radar capability. The program's primary objective is to procure and field the AN/TPY-4 radar system, which will replace the legacy AN/TPS-75 radar. This new system is designed to provide enhanced detection, identification, tracking, and reporting of aerial targets for the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC), supporting both the Air Force and joint service operations.

The AN/TPY-4 Radar System is at the core of the 3DELRR program. Its goals include the ability to detect and track modern, highly maneuverable, and small radar cross-section airborne threats, such as advanced aircraft and unmanned aerial systems. The system will deliver a precise, real-time air picture, enabling effective control of individual aircraft under diverse environmental and operational conditions. Additional objectives include improving reliability, operational availability, maintainability, transportability, survivability, and sustainability compared to legacy systems.

The Direct Mission Support (DMS) Equipment line item covers the procurement of essential equipment required for each AN/TPY-4 radar. This includes Prime Movers (trucks), Generators, and necessary cryptographic and diagnostic support equipment. Prime Movers and generators are delivered directly to operational units, while other equipment is provided as Government Furnished Property (GFP) to Lockheed Martin for integration with the radar system. DMS also supports recurring purchases and fixed installations for NORAD and NORTHCOM units, reflecting the program's joint and homeland defense applications.

The Interim Contractor Support (ICS) component is designed to ensure operational readiness and maintenance for fielded radar systems until an organic Air Force support capability is established. Funding will scale up ICS to accommodate the additional systems being fielded, providing technical support, logistics, and sustainment services. This approach helps bridge the gap between initial deployment and the development of in-house support infrastructure, ensuring the systems remain mission-capable during the transition period.

The budget request supports the procurement of three additional 3DELRR systems, leveraging a renegotiated firm fixed price contract structure to achieve cost efficiencies. The funding also enables the scaling of ICS and the acquisition of DMS equipment for these new systems. The program aligns with statutory requirements under Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, ensuring the capability is available for both active and reserve components, homeland defense missions, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities.

Program Support Costs are allocated to both production and research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) activities. These costs increase as capability development progresses, supporting ongoing improvements and integration of new technologies. The program benefits from economies of scale in procurement, though lower quantity buys can result in higher per-unit costs. The request reflects a reduction in Advisory and Assistance Services to promote government efficiency, in line with Executive Order 14222 and broader Department of Defense cost-saving initiatives.

The 3DELRR budget line item is focused on delivering a next-generation, expeditionary radar capability to the Air Force and joint forces. It encompasses procurement of advanced radar hardware, mission support equipment, and interim contractor support, all designed to enhance air domain awareness, threat detection, and operational effectiveness in a rapidly evolving threat environment. The program is managed by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC/HB), with Lockheed Martin as the primary contractor, and is structured to ensure timely delivery, integration, and sustainment of these critical assets.