AN/BPS-16

Description: The AN/BPS-16 is an X-band, submarine radar intended to provide navigational safety, situational awareness and limited surveillance of low flying aircraft and helicopters. These radars were first deployed on the Ohio-class ballistic submarines and subsequently on the SSN 21-class and SSN 774-class nuclear-powered attack submarines. The radar system manufactured by Sperry Marine, a Northrop-Grumman subsidiary, presents a clutter-suppressed real-time picture of surface radar targets and geographic features. It also encompasses automatic radar-plotting aid software for the Virginia-class submarines and an upgrade of the Voyage Management System, which provides integrated navigation capability and complies with the Chief of Naval Operations' directive for conversion of all U.S. Navy vessels to electronic charts.

The BPS-16 variant that is being provided for new-built Virginia-class boats is the AN/BPS-16(V)4 model with an estimated acquisition cost of more than $2 million per unit depending on the procurement contract. Early contracts put covering equipment for only two submarines the unitary cost around $4.5 million.

On August 19, 2004, the Naval Sea Systems Command awarded Northrop-Grumman a $24.7 million contract to supply navigation radar sets and associated equipment for 10 submarines. Deliveries are planned from late 2005 through 2010 with all options exercised. Four cruise missile submarines (SSGN?) and six Virginia-class attack submarines (SSN 778 #5 to SSN 783? #10) will receive AN/BPS-16(V)4 navigation radar sets.