Spain is moving forward with the development of an advanced counter-battery radar system designed to rapidly detect and track incoming indirect fire threats such as artillery shells, rockets, and mortar rounds. Known as the Radar for Locating the Origin of Indirect Fire (RALOFI), the system is intended to strengthen battlefield awareness by quickly identifying the trajectory of hostile projectiles and pinpointing their launch positions. The radar will incorporate a fully electronically scanned array architecture, enabling it to monitor wide areas and respond quickly to multiple incoming threats. By using gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology, the system aims to achieve improved power efficiency and enhanced signal performance compared with older radar technologies. GaN components allow radars to operate at higher power levels and frequencies, which can significantly extend detection range and improve tracking accuracy. In addition to advanced radar hardware, the RALOFI system will employ software-defined radio communications that enable flexible configuration and rapid adaptation to changing operational requirements. These features will help the radar maintain reliable performance even in environments where electronic warfare or signal interference may be present. The combination of GaN-based electronics and modern communication systems is expected to enhance the radar’s resilience against jamming and other electronic countermeasures. Once operational, the RALOFI radar will provide Spanish forces with faster detection and more accurate targeting data, supporting counter-battery operations and enabling quicker response against enemy artillery positions. The system represents part of Spain’s broader effort to modernize its defense technology and improve protection against increasingly sophisticated indirect fire threats on the modern battlefield.
