OVERVIEW
Long-range missile threats are rapidly evolving. Modern ballistic and hypersonic missiles fly faster, farther, and with higher precision than ever before, some exceeding speeds of Mach 6. These threats drastically reduce response time, placing unprecedented demands on national defense systems. To intercept such threats, nations must detect and classify targets thousands of kilometers away, at the earliest possible stage, ensuring adequate warning time for decision-making and response. Hence, early warning and accurate tracking capabilities have become critical pillars of national defense and preparedness.
IAI ELTA’s ELM-2090 TERRA is a strategic dual-band radar system purpose-built to counter the full spectrum of modern long-range threats. The system combines the ELM-2090U ULTRA UHF-band radar, optimized for wide-area search and detection, with the ELM-2090S SPECTRA S-band radar, designed for highly accurate tracking and classification. ULTRA acquires targets at extreme ranges and cues SPECTRA for precision tracking, while continuing tracking for redundancy. This resilient system is capable of detecting, classifying, and tracking ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, air-breathing targets, and satellites under all operational conditions. With its modular design, robust ECCM capabilities, and proven hardware, TERRA integrates smoothly with national air defense architectures and supports both defense and space-monitoring missions.
The TERRA radar system provides nations with the critical time and confidence needed to counter the most advanced aerial threats. By detecting and tracking missiles at extremely long ranges, TERRA enables defenders to initiate intercepts far from their borders, thereby increasing both effectiveness and survivability. Its ability to estimate launch and impact points supports rapid and informed decision-making at the highest command levels.
In addition to missile defense, TERRA contributes to space domain awareness, offering satellite monitoring and space debris tracking.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Dual-band radar system combining UHF and S-band radars
- Large-volume coverage at very long-range detection of all threats, including low-RCS
- High accuracy tracking and classification of ballistic and cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, aircraft, and UAVs
- Early warning with precise launch and impact point estimation for ballistic threats
- Automatic handover between radars for seamless tracking and redundancy
- Operates effectively in severe weather and EW environments
- Interoperable with existing air and missile defense systems
- Secondary role: space surveillance, satellite tracking, and space debris monitoring
