August 18, 2007:
Thailand is buying an AN/TPS77
radar from the United States. This is a portable military radar that can cover
out to 450 kilometers, and up to 100,000 feet. You can set up the phased array
(AESA) radar panel in a remote location, and have the radar information, and
the status of the radar, monitored elsewhere. The AN/TPS-77 operates, on
average, about 11 weeks before needing the attention of any technicians. The
AN/TPS-77 will complete Thai air defense system, giving the air force radar
coverage over all its borders. The AN/TPS-77 costs about $100 million. The
entire system can be moved using three tractor trailers. These trailers can be
moved by air as well.