Which radar system is primarily used for air and missile defense?

The Aegis Combat System is a comprehensive suite that integrates various radar and weapon systems to provide effective air and missile defense capabilities. It utilizes advanced tracking and guidance functions to detect, assess, and engage threats in the air space. Central to the Aegis system is the SPY-1 radar, which provides 3D detection, tracking, and engagement support for both air and missile threats.

By incorporating the Aegis Combat System, naval forces gain a major advantage in defending against a range of threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. The system’s ability to integrate information from multiple sensors and communicate effectively with other platforms enhances situational awareness and improves response times in dynamic combat scenarios.

While other radar systems, like the SPY-1 and AN/SPY-3, play essential roles within the Aegis framework for specific functions, the Aegis Combat System encompasses a broader operational capability essential for modern naval warfare, particularly in air and missile defense scenarios. The Phalanx CIWS, on the other hand, is designed for close-in defense against fast-moving threats but does not offer the same extent of air defense capabilities as the Aegis system.