In 1952, Sanders Associates, Inc., worked with McDonnell Aircraft Company to develop a radar using phased array concepts. This led to the PANoramic Array Radar (PANAR) contract with the U.S. Air Force. Its key design element—multibeam phased arrays—is the basis of present-day radar defense and surveillance systems.
The Air Force has embraced new technical approaches like open mission systems and rapid software updates for cutting-edge aircraft like the B-21 and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Increasingly, though, the service is also working to apply these to its older, “legacy” aircraft, officials said this week.