Saab UK has secured a £1.8 million ($2.45 million) contract from the UK’s Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) to provide logistics and sustainment services for the Giraffe 1X multi-mission radar.
The scope of work includes the provision of equipment, operator and technical training, helpdesk assistance, and spare parts. Support activities are scheduled to begin on July 2, 2026, and continue through March 31, 2027, with a potential extension lasting until March 31, 2030.
DE&S selected Saab UK through a direct award, citing the company’s position as the original manufacturer and design authority of the Giraffe 1X radar. Saab’s ownership of the system’s intellectual property and proprietary technical data was also considered essential for providing effective support.
The UK initially procured 11 Giraffe 1X radar systems in 2023 under a contract valued at 264 million Swedish kronor ($28 million). In April 2026, the country placed another order for additional systems valued at £24 million ($33 million).
Giraffe 1X Radar Capabilities
The Giraffe 1X is a compact, lightweight 3D AESA radar designed by Saab for tactical surveillance across air and surface environments. With a weight of under 150 kilograms (330 pounds), the radar can be installed on light vehicles, fixed masts, or tripods, enabling rapid deployment in different operational environments.
It is capable of identifying and tracking low-flying and low-altitude threats such as uncrewed aerial vehicles, helicopters, and slow-moving aircraft. The system can also contribute to counter-UAS missions and provide early warning against rockets, artillery, and mortar attacks.
Because of its mobility and compact footprint, the Giraffe 1X can be used to protect deployed forces, forward bases, mobile units, and critical infrastructure.
Saab UK has further expanded its industrial presence with a defense manufacturing facility in Fareham, southern England. The site is intended to manufacture and support the company’s radar and underwater robotics portfolio, including the Giraffe 1X, Giraffe AMB, and TAIPAN (Arthur) artillery-locating radar.
