AN/TPS-68
Description of the radar set, tactical-technical characteristics
Manufacturer:Naval Avionics Facility Indianapolis
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| frequency: | C-Band |
| pulse repetition time (PRT): | |
| pulse repetition frequency (PRF): | 375 Hz |
| pulsewidth (τ): | 2 µs |
| receive time: | |
| dead time: | |
| peak power: | 165 kW |
| average power: | |
| instrumented range: | 200 NM (≙ 370 km) |
| range resolution: | |
| accuracy: | |
| beamwidth: | 2° |
| hits per scan: | |
| antenna rotation: | |
| MTBCF: | |
| MTTR: | |
AN/TPS-68
The AN/TPS-68 was a tactical weather radar operating with a wavelength of 5,4 cm in C-Band.
The symmetrical antenna reflector had a diameter of 6.5 ft and had an antenna gain of 38 dBi. The antenna position accuracy was ±0.5 degrees. The nominal noise figure of the receiver was given as 12 dB. The receiver got a sensitivity of -104 dBm. Its band width was given with 3.2 MHz. The radar had a conventional, light-trace PPI-scope with center blanking and a conventional RHI. It used an oscilloscope as an A-scope.
The development of this radar began in May 1976, the first prototype was completed in September 1977. There were six radar sets planned to build but the program had many problems (especially with the shelter). The first two AN/TPS-68 tactical weather radars were signed at Tinker Air Force Base (Oklahoma City). Initial operational capability was declared on 2 August 1982. Many NEXRAD radars have already been delivered at this time. The AN/TPS-68 program was canceled about 10 years after its introduction.