German radar already guarding Ukraine is picked to spot ballistic missiles. Its maker just signed a new deal with Kyiv

German radar manufacturer Hensoldt and Ukraine's Defense Ministry have signed a memorandum for additional large-scale radar deliveries, according to a report on October 5. This development aims to equip Hensoldt's TRML-4D radar, currently in use by Ukraine, with the FREYJA system, a ballistic missile shield under construction. Ballistic missiles pose the greatest threat during Russia's air war in Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently expressed that Ukraine is still searching for Patriot missiles to counter these threats. The only alternative system available is the Franco-Italian SAMP/T, which utilizes Aster 30 interceptors in limited numbers. To address this gap, Fire Point, a defense company, is modifying its FP-7 missile into a Patriot-like interceptor.

However, such interceptors require radars to detect targets first. During German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to Ukraine, Hensoldt CEO Oliver Dörre signed the memorandum, which extends cooperation in ballistic missile defense and explores deploying and jointly operating TRL-4D LR long-range radars. The TRL-4D LR is the land-based variant of a long-range radar Hensoldt produces for the German Navy, with a range exceeding 400 km against air targets, significantly surpassing the TRML-4D's capabilities.

Ukrainian air defense forces urgently require high-performance radars to safeguard infrastructure like bridges, as stated by Dörre. Hensoldt and Fire Point signed a memorandum at the Eurosatory arms show in Paris in June, with the TRML-4D radar playing a key role in the FREYJA project. Fire Point is set to take on the role of prime contractor and bear design authority, while Hensoldt will produce, test, and deliver the radars.