AN/FPS-115 PAVE PAWS

SEO Title: AN/FPS-115 PAVE PAWS: Phased Array Radar, Missile Warning System and Strategic Importance

Category: Defence & Security | Radar Technology | Strategic Systems

UPSC Notes

AN/FPS-115 PAVE PAWS is a U.S. strategic early-warning radar system designed to detect ballistic missile launches and track objects in space.

Key Pointers

  • Country: United States.

  • PAVE PAWS = Precision Acquisition Vehicle Entry Phased Array Warning System.

  • Uses phased-array radar technology.

  • Designed primarily for:

    • Ballistic missile warning

    • Space surveillance

    • Satellite/object tracking

  • Fixed radar installation.

  • Operates at UHF frequencies.

  • Important component of strategic missile-warning architecture.

  • Phased-array systems can electronically steer radar beams without mechanically rotating the entire antenna.

Prelims Focus: US → phased-array radar → ballistic missile warning → space surveillance.