The Invisible Shield: How America's Next-Gen Radar Eyes Are Stopping Drone Swarms

These advanced radar systems can track hundreds of tiny targets at once—and they're already protecting troops in combat zones around the world.

The enemy drone is no bigger than a dinner plate, flying 50 feet off the ground at highway speeds. Traditional radar would miss it entirely. But SRC Inc's revolutionary Gryphon radar locks onto the tiny aircraft instantly, tracking its every move while simultaneously monitoring dozens of other threats across a 10-kilometer radius. Welcome to the future of air defense.

In an era where a $500 consumer drone can carry explosives and threaten billion-dollar military assets, America's defense establishment is fighting back with some of the most sophisticated radar technology ever deployed. At the heart of this electronic arms race sits the Gryphon family of radars—a collection of truck-mounted, AI-enhanced sensing systems that represent nothing less than a paradigm shift in how we detect and defeat airborne threats.

The Drone Problem That's Keeping Generals Awake

Here's the nightmare scenario keeping military planners up at night: imagine hundreds of small, cheap drones swarming toward a military base, each one potentially carrying enough explosives to disable aircraft, destroy fuel depots, or kill personnel. Traditional radar systems, designed to spot large aircraft at long distances, struggle with these thumb-sized threats that fly low, slow, and often in coordinated groups.

"The proliferation of low-cost, high-impact UAS is one of the greatest challenges facing America and our allies today," explains Kevin Hair, president and CEO of SRC Inc, the Syracuse-based company behind the Gryphon radar family. It's a problem that has moved from theoretical to terrifyingly real, with drone attacks becoming routine in conflict zones from Ukraine to the

Engineering Report: SRC Inc's Gryphon™ Multi-Mission Radar Family

Executive Summary

SRC Inc's Gryphon™ Multi-Mission Radar Family represents a cutting-edge suite of 3-D Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar systems specifically engineered for modern multi-domain defense applications. The family includes the field-proven R1410, the newly introduced 360-degree coverage R1430/R1440 systems, and the extended-range R1540, all designed to counter evolving unmanned aircraft system (UAS) threats while providing comprehensive force protection capabilities.

Key findings: The Gryphon family demonstrates superior performance in detecting small, low-flying targets across heavily congested airspace, with lightweight, air-cooled designs that enable both mobile and fixed-site deployment. These systems have been extensively deployed globally, including in active conflict zones across the United States, Asia, Middle East, and Europe.

Company Background

SRC Inc, formerly Syracuse Research Corporation, is an independent not-for-profit research and development company founded in 1957 as an arm of Syracuse University. Headquartered in North Syracuse, New York, SRC became independent in the early 1970s and officially changed its name to SRC Inc in 2008. With nearly 70 years of experience in national defense priorities, the company specializes in developing advanced radar, electronic warfare, and communications systems for land, sea, air, and space applications.

The organization operates with approximately 3,000 employees and generates annual revenue of $365.87 million (FY 2023), serving the defense, environment, and intelligence industries. SRC's not-for-profit structure allows it to focus on optimal solutions rather than profit maximization, maintaining its commitment to customers and mission success.

System Architecture and Technology Foundation

Core AESA Technology

The Gryphon radar family utilizes 3-D Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, providing several critical advantages over traditional mechanically scanned systems:

Rapid beam steering without physical antenna movement
Simultaneous multi-target tracking of hundreds of moving targets
Enhanced reliability with no moving parts in the antenna assembly
Electronic beam shaping for optimized coverage patterns
Reduced radar cross-section compared to rotating antennas

Design Philosophy

All Gryphon systems share common design principles:

Lightweight construction for enhanced mobility
Air-cooled operation eliminating complex liquid cooling requirements
Low-cost manufacturing enabling widespread deployment
Modular architecture supporting mission-specific configurations
Ruggedized design for harsh environmental conditions

Radar System Variants

Gryphon R1400/R1410

The R1400/R1410 serves as the foundational system in the Gryphon family, specifically engineered for air surveillance and small target detection.

Technical Specifications:

Detection Range: 10-kilometer operational range for small targets
Target Categories: Small UAS, general aviation aircraft, birds, and non-cooperative targets
Coverage: 3-D hemispheric surveillance volume
Update Rate: Rapid scan capabilities for real-time tracking

Operational Capabilities:

Precise detection and tracking of low-altitude, small radar cross-section targets
Multi-target engagement in cluttered environments
Integration with fire control systems
Real-time threat classification and identification

Deployment Status: Extensively deployed globally including Japan (in partnership with Nippon Kaiyo Co., Ltd.), with FCC approval for commercial UAS and general aviation detection applications.

Gryphon R1430/R1440 - 360-Degree Coverage Systems

The R1430/R1440 variants introduce revolutionary persistent 360-degree coverage through multi-panel configurations.

System Configuration:

R1430: Three-panel array configuration
R1440: Four-panel array configuration

Enhanced Capabilities:

Persistent Coverage: Continuous 360-degree surveillance without blind spots
Faster Update Rates: Enhanced target tracking through multiple simultaneous beams
Compact Design: Optimized for both mobile and fixed-site deployment
Advanced Target Tracking: Improved performance in heavily congested environments

Tactical Advantages:

On-the-move operation capability
Reduced deployment footprint
Enhanced situational awareness
Improved reaction time to emerging threats

Gryphon R1540 - Extended Range System

The R1540 represents the high-performance variant optimized for extended-range operations and precision fire control.

Advanced Features:

Extended Detection Range: Significantly increased operational range beyond R1410
Higher Accuracy: Enhanced precision for fire control applications
Compact Form Factor: Smaller solution compared to traditional radars in its class
Military Integration: Extensively deployed with U.S. military forces

Performance Characteristics:

Superior target discrimination in complex electromagnetic environments
Enhanced velocity measurement accuracy
Improved altitude determination for 3-D target positioning
Advanced clutter rejection algorithms

Multi-Mission Capabilities

Primary Applications

Counter-UAS Operations:

Detection and tracking of small commercial and military drones
Classification of UAS threats in real-time
Integration with kinetic and non-kinetic defeat systems
Support for swarm detection scenarios

Air Surveillance:

General aviation aircraft monitoring
Commercial aircraft tracking in terminal airspace
Unknown aircraft identification and classification
Cooperative and non-cooperative target detection

Ground Surveillance:

Vehicle detection and tracking
Personnel movement monitoring
Perimeter security applications
Border and coastal surveillance

Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar (RAM) Detection:

Incoming projectile tracking
Trajectory prediction for intercept systems
Early warning for force protection
Integration with counter-battery systems

Secondary Applications

SHORAD (Short-Range Air Defense):

Target acquisition for surface-to-air missile systems
Fire control radar functionality
Threat prioritization and engagement sequencing

Base Defense:

Perimeter monitoring and intrusion detection
Critical infrastructure protection
Force protection for forward operating bases

Coastal and Border Security:

Maritime domain awareness
Small vessel detection
Smuggling interdiction support
Search and rescue operations

Integration and Interoperability

System Integration Capabilities

The Gryphon family supports comprehensive integration with other SRC technologies and third-party systems:

Sensor Fusion:

Real-time data correlation from multiple sensor types
Enhanced target identification through multi-sensor inputs
Reduced false alarm rates through sensor redundancy

Weapons Integration:

Direct fire control for kinetic defeat systems
Cueing for directed energy weapons
Integration with electronic warfare countermeasures

Command and Control:

NATO-standard data link compatibility
Real-time threat sharing across networked systems
Integration with existing air defense networks

Software Architecture

Intuitive Interface:

User-friendly configuration software
Simplified operation for non-technical personnel
Customizable display options for different mission requirements

Mission Flexibility:

Rapid reconfiguration for changing threat environments
Software-defined radar capabilities
Over-the-air updates for enhanced functionality

Performance Analysis

Detection Capabilities

Target Types Successfully Detected:

UAS platforms (Group 1-3)
General aviation aircraft
Commercial aircraft
Helicopters and rotorcraft
Birds and wildlife
Ground vehicles
Personnel
Rocket, artillery, and mortar rounds

Environmental Performance:

Operation in adverse weather conditions
Clutter rejection in urban environments
Electronic countermeasures resistance
Day/night operation capability

Operational Metrics

Reliability:

High mean time between failures (MTBF)
Minimal maintenance requirements
Self-diagnostic capabilities
Remote monitoring and troubleshooting

Accuracy:

Precise range, bearing, and elevation measurement
Velocity determination for moving targets
Target classification confidence levels
Low false alarm rates

Global Deployment and Field Performance

International Deployments

The Gryphon family has demonstrated proven performance across diverse operational environments:

Geographic Distribution:

United States military installations
Asian-Pacific region (including Japan deployment)
Middle East conflict zones
European NATO installations

Operational Environments:

Active combat zones
Border security applications
Critical infrastructure protection
Civil aviation monitoring

Field Validation

Combat Proven:

Successful operation in contested electromagnetic environments
Proven reliability under combat conditions
Effective counter-UAS performance against real threats
Integration with operational defense systems

Performance Metrics:

High target detection rates
Low false alarm rates
Rapid threat response times
Successful integration with existing infrastructure

Technical Innovations

Advanced Signal Processing

Algorithms:

Adaptive clutter cancellation
Moving target indication (MTI)
Doppler processing for velocity determination
Digital beamforming for enhanced resolution

Electronic Protection:

Anti-jamming capabilities
Low probability of intercept (LPI) operation
Frequency agility for interference avoidance
Adaptive waveform generation

Manufacturing Excellence

Production Capabilities:

SRCTec manufacturing subsidiary ensures quality control
Scalable production for large-scale deployments
Rigorous testing and validation procedures
Lifecycle support and maintenance services

Economic and Strategic Impact

Cost-Effectiveness

Acquisition Benefits:

Lower cost compared to traditional radar systems
Reduced total cost of ownership
Minimal infrastructure requirements
Rapid deployment capabilities

Operational Savings:

Reduced personnel requirements
Lower maintenance costs
Energy-efficient operation
Extended service life

Strategic Advantages

Force Multiplication:

Enhanced situational awareness
Improved threat response times
Reduced vulnerability to surprise attacks
Enhanced mission success rates

Technology Leadership:

Maintains U.S. technological superiority
Supports allied defense capabilities
Contributes to global security stability
Advances radar technology state-of-the-art

Future Development and Roadmap

Technology Evolution

Near-Term Enhancements:

Artificial intelligence integration for improved target classification
Enhanced electronic warfare resistance
Improved user interface design
Extended range capabilities

Long-Term Development:

Integration with space-based sensors
Quantum radar technology research
Advanced materials for weight reduction
Autonomous operation capabilities

Market Expansion

Commercial Applications:

Airport security systems
Critical infrastructure protection
Border surveillance systems
Maritime domain awareness

International Markets:

Allied nation deployments
Technology transfer programs
Joint development initiatives
Training and support services

Recommendations

For Military Operators

Immediate Implementation: Prioritize deployment of R1430/R1440 systems for comprehensive base defense
Integration Planning: Develop comprehensive sensor fusion architectures incorporating Gryphon systems
Training Programs: Establish operator training programs to maximize system effectiveness
Maintenance Infrastructure: Develop field maintenance capabilities for sustained operations

For Program Managers

Procurement Strategy: Consider multi-year procurement contracts to achieve cost efficiencies
System Integration: Plan for comprehensive integration with existing air defense networks
Technology Refresh: Establish technology refresh cycles to maintain capability advantages
International Cooperation: Explore opportunities for allied nation co-development programs

For Technology Development

Research Investment: Continue investment in AESA technology advancement
AI Integration: Prioritize artificial intelligence integration for enhanced automation
Countermeasure Development: Develop advanced electronic protection capabilities
Next-Generation Planning: Begin development of next-generation radar technologies

Conclusion

SRC Inc's Gryphon™ Multi-Mission Radar Family represents a paradigm shift in tactical radar capabilities, combining advanced AESA technology with innovative engineering solutions to address contemporary and emerging threats. The system family's proven performance across diverse operational environments, combined with its cost-effective design and multi-mission flexibility, positions it as a critical enabling technology for modern defense applications.

The recent expansion with the R1430/R1440 and R1540 variants demonstrates SRC's commitment to continuous innovation and response to evolving threat environments. With extensive global deployment and proven combat effectiveness, the Gryphon family establishes a new standard for tactical radar systems while maintaining the cost-effectiveness necessary for widespread deployment.

The combination of technical excellence, operational flexibility, and proven reliability makes the Gryphon™ Multi-Mission Radar Family an essential component of comprehensive defense architectures, supporting both current operational requirements and future technological evolution in the dynamic threat landscape.

Sources and References

Primary Sources

SRC, Inc. "Gryphon Family of Radars." SRC Official Website. Accessed May 22, 2025. https://www.srcinc.com/products/radar/gryphon-radars.html
SRC, Inc. "Multi-Mission Radars." SRC Official Website. Accessed May 22, 2025. https://www.srcinc.com/products/radar/multi-mission-radar-systems.html

Press Releases and News Sources

Globe Newswire. "SRC Expands Gryphon Multi-Mission Radar Family with New Counter-UAS and Force Protection Radars." May 20, 2025. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/05/20/3085039/0/en/SRC-Expands-Gryphon-Multi-Mission-radar-Family-with-New-Counter-UAS-and-Force-Protection-Radars.html
The Manila Times. "SRC Expands Gryphon Multi-Mission Radar Family with New Counter-UAS and Force Protection Radars." May 20, 2025. https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/05/20/tmt-newswire/globenewswire/src-expands-gryphon-multi-mission-radar-family-with-new-counter-uas-and-force-protection-radars/2117608
Satellite Evolution. "SRC expands Gryphon multi-mission radar family with new Counter-UAS and Force Protection Radars." May 20, 2025. https://www.satelliteevolution.com/post/src-expands-gryphon-multi-mission-radar-family-with-new-counter-uas-and-force-protection-radars
Defense Daily. "SRC Details New R1430/1440 And R1540 Multi-Mission Radars." May 19, 2025. https://www.defensedaily.com/src-details-new-r1430-1440-and-r1540-multi-mission-radars/advanced-transformational-technology/
Globe Newswire. "SRC Partners with Nippon Kaiyo to Deploy Gryphon R1410 System in Japan." January 6, 2025. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/06/3004733/0/en/SRC-Partners-with-Nippon-Kaiyo-to-Deploy-Gryphon-R1410-System-in-Japan.html

Technical Documentation

Federal Communications Commission. "FCC ID 2APK5-R1410 Commercial UAS and GA Detection Radar." FCC Equipment Authorization Database. Accessed May 22, 2025. https://fccid.io/2APK5-R1410
Federal Communications Commission. "FCC ID 2APK5-R1400 Commercial UAS and GA Detection Radar." FCC Equipment Authorization Database. Accessed May 22, 2025. https://fccid.io/2APK5-R1400
AeroExpo. "Surveillance radar - R1400 - GRYPHON SENSORS." AeroExpo Product Catalog. Accessed May 22, 2025. https://www.aeroexpo.online/prod/gryphon-sensors/product-171065-15269.html

Company and Industry Information

Wikipedia. "SRC Inc." Last modified March 5, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SRC_Inc.
Military Embedded Systems. "SRC Company Profile." Accessed May 22, 2025. https://militaryembedded.com/company/src
Military Embedded Systems. "Fire control radar contract for U.S. Army won by SRC." April 2, 2025. https://militaryembedded.com/radar-ew/sensors/fire-control-radar-contract-for-us-army-won-by-src
Cvillepedia. "SRC, Inc." Accessed May 22, 2025. https://www.cvillepedia.org/SRC,_Inc.
WRVO Public Media. "Federal funding to help new tech at local defense company SRC Inc." July 22, 2024. https://www.wrvo.org/regional-news/2024-07-22/federal-funding-to-help-new-tech-at-local-defense-company-src-inc
Craft.co. "SRC Company Profile - Office Locations, Competitors, Revenue, Financials, Employees, Key People, Subsidiaries." Accessed May 22, 2025. https://craft.co/src
Zippia. "Working At SRC: Company Overview and Culture." March 14, 2024. https://www.zippia.com/src-careers-39229/
CB Insights. "SRC - Products, Competitors, Financials, Employees, Headquarters Locations." Accessed May 22, 2025. https://www.cbinsights.com/company/src-4

Technical References

Wikipedia. "S band." Last modified March 13, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S_band
Radartutorial.eu. "Waves and frequency ranges used by radar." Accessed May 22, 2025. https://www.radartutorial.eu/07.waves/Waves%20and%20Frequency%20Ranges.en.html
National Academies Press. "Appendix B: IEEE Standard Letter Designations for Radar Bands." In Handbook of Frequency Allocations and Spectrum Protection for Scientific Uses: Second Edition. 2015. https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/21774/chapter/10
Radartutorial.eu. "Gryphon R1410." Accessed May 22, 2025. https://www.radartutorial.eu/19.kartei/02.surv/karte062.en.html

Financial and Business Sources

Yahoo Finance. "SRC Expands Gryphon Multi-Mission Radar Family with New Counter-UAS and Force Protection Radars." May 20, 2025. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/src-expands-gryphon-multi-mission-135200036.html
Morningstar. "SRC Expands Gryphon Multi-Mission Radar Family with New Counter-UAS and Force Protection Radars." May 20, 2025. https://www.morningstar.com/news/globe-newswire/9454954/src-expands-gryphon-multi-mission-radar-family-with-new-counter-uas-and-force-protection-radars
ForexTV. "SRC Expands Gryphon Multi-Mission Radar Family with New Counter-UAS and Force Protection Radars." May 20, 2025. https://forextv.com/src-expands-gryphon-multi-mission-radar-family-with-new-counter-uas-and-force-protection-radars/

Report Classification: Unclassified
Prepared by: Engineering Analysis Team
Date: May 22, 2025
Research Period: May 20-22, 2025
Total Sources: 25 references from official company documentation, press releases, technical databases, industry publications, and regulatory filings

SRC Expands Gryphon Multi-Mission Radar Family with New Coun

Thursday, May 22, 2025

How SRC's Next-Gen Radar Eyes Are Stopping Drone Swarms