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Saab UK has delivered Giraffe 1X radar systems to the Royal Air Force to strengthen defense against the growing threat of uncrewed aerial systems.
Procured in direct response to an urgent operational requirement, the delivery builds on years of collaboration, capability enhancements, and operational experience between the RAF and Saab. The compact 3D radar systems have now been integrated into the RAF’s broader counter-drone architecture to assist in detecting, tracking, and engaging airborne targets.
This capability directly complements the RAF Regiment’s ongoing force protection duties for UK and coalition personnel and facilities, including deployed Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C-UAS) operations across the Middle East.
To meet the accelerated timeline, Saab mobilized its global production enterprise alongside its UK manufacturing and support infrastructure.
Andy Fraser, Group Managing Director at Saab UK, said, “This delivery showcases the dedication and expertise of teams across Saab, from our UK manufacturing operations through to colleagues across the wider business, who worked together to support delivery of this capability. It demonstrates the strength of Saab’s industrial footprint in the UK and our ability to bring together the right resources to support our customers’ requirements. We are proud to provide British and coalition forces with the capabilities they need to carry out their mission and to keep people and society safe.”
Military officials highlighted the speed and flexibility of the acquisition process in response to evolving battlefield hazards.
A spokesperson from the Royal Air Force said, “As the customer, we have been impressed with how Saab were able to mobilise their global production capacity to rapidly satisfy our Giraffe 1X requirement in support of Counter Drone operations on deployed operations. This equipment is critical in mitigating the risk to life posed by the drone threat. Saab gave delivery quickly and innovatively, working with the MoD team to satisfy this contract.”
The successful rollout reinforces ongoing UK investment in advanced force protection capabilities while establishing a blueprint for rapid industrial and military coordination to meet emerging operational demands.
