XY-SAR-X Drone
Modern reconnaissance and defense operations require continuous access to high-precision remote sensing data, regardless of cloud cover, fog, smoke, or time of day. Conventional electro-optical and thermal imaging sensors lose effectiveness in degraded visual environments or severe weather conditions, creating critical gaps in situational awareness. The XY-SAR-X Drone Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) system addresses this operational challenge by delivering a compact, ultralight radar solution engineered for high-resolution imaging and real-time target detection.
Developed based on Polish engineering expertise by SpaceForest and XY-Sensing, XY-SAR-X Drone combines high performance with a lightweight architecture under 10 kg. Engineered for pod-mounted or internal fuselage integration across tactical unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), helicopters, and light manned aircraft, the system delivers imaging resolutions down to 15 cm with an operational range exceeding 15 km and a service ceiling of up to 5,000 m. Featuring an onboard real-time SAR processor, Low Probability of Intercept (LPI) Frequency-Modulated Continuous-Wave (FMCW) technology, and robust electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM) capabilities, XY-SAR-X Drone delivers mission-critical intelligence for defense forces, border security agencies, and emergency response services.
Key Features
- High-Resolution Imaging: Ground resolution down to 15 cm (1 pixel = 15 × 30 cm), delivering detailed terrain mapping for tactical analysis.
- Low Probability of Intercept (LPI): Frequency-Modulated Continuous-Wave (FMCW) transmission prevents detection by adversary Electronic Support (ES) and ELINT systems.
- Mechanical Antenna Stabilization (Gimbal): Azimuth stabilization (±20°) compensates for wind gusts and platform vibrations to maintain consistent image fidelity.
- Real-Time Onboard SAR Processing: Integrated SAR processor and high-speed data link enable immediate imagery downlink and dissemination during flight.
- Electronic Attack Resistance: Robust architecture engineered to operate reliably in dense electronic countermeasure and contested electromagnetic environments.
- Ultralight Modular Design: Weighs only 7.8 kg without housing (under 10 kg with enclosure), facilitating seamless integration with a wide variety of tactical UAVs and manned platforms.
Key Benefits
- 24/7 All-Weather Operational Readiness: Uncompromised imaging capabilities through fog, cloud cover, rain, night, and battlefield obscurants.
- Seamless UAV Integration: Low power consumption (110–180 W including data link) and compact dimensions maximize platform flight endurance.
- Tactical Stealth and Survivability: Low radiated RF power safeguards the host platform against adversary direction finding and emitter targeting.
- Immediate Decision-Making: Real-time onboard processing eliminates intelligence latency for operational commanders.
Operational Modes & Capabilities
- Stripmap Mode: Continuous, wide-area terrain imaging along the flight path for broad tactical mapping.
- Spotlight Mode: Concentrates the radar beam on a designated area of interest to provide maximum resolution and target detail.
- GMTI (Ground Moving Target Indicator): Real-time detection, tracking, and positioning of moving land vehicles and personnel.
- MMTI (Maritime Moving Target Indicator): Dedicated operational mode for surface vessel detection and maritime tracking.
- CCD (Coherent Change Detection): Identifies subtle terrain, track, or infrastructure changes by comparing coherent interferometric passes.
Technical Specifications
Parameter | Value / Specification |
|---|---|
Antenna Polarization | V/V |
Operational Range (Target to Radar) | 150 – 15 000 m |
Operational Altitude | Up to 5 000 m |
Best Range Resolution | 15 – 30 cm |
Best Cross-Range Resolution | 30 cm |
Elevation Angle of Beam | 25° – 65° |
Supply Voltage | 36 – 52 V |
Power Consumption | 110 – 180 W (with link) |
Azimuth Stabilization (Gimbal) | -20° to +20° |
Weight (with Housing) | Under 10 kg |
Weight (without Housing & Cover) | 7.8 kg |
Operating Temperature Range | -10°C to +50°C |
Housing Dimensions (L x W x H) | 120 x 20 x 20 cm |
Aircraft Integration Dimensions | 84 x 45 x 15 cm |
Digital Control Interface | Ethernet |
Data Storage Interface | USB |
Housing Material | Kevlar-reinforced composite |
Image / Video File Formats | JPEG / MPEG |
Mechanical Mounting Interface | Customizable to client requirements |
Applications
Military and Defense
Border surveillance, special operations tactical reconnaissance, threat mapping, and missions in contested EW environments.
Law Enforcement & Border Control
Borderline monitoring, unauthorized crossing interdiction, and vehicle movement tracking.
Earth Observation & Environmental Protection
High-precision terrain mapping, disaster response assessment (flooding, landslides), and environmental change tracking.
Maritime Security
Coastal surveillance, surface vessel tracking, and search-and-rescue (SAR) support.
Radar solution developed and delivered in partnership

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