Non-Airborne Radar Equipment: An Introduction to FSC 5840

As federal supply chains are wide-spanning and encompass millions of components, precise classification is essential for efficient procurement. The Federal Supply Class (FSC) system is widely used by both government entities and private sectors, as it conveniently organizes parts based on function. FSC 5840 specifically covers non-airborne radar equipment used in numerous applications, distinguishing it from other types of radar systems. In this blog, we aim to provide a clearer understanding of the types of items found within FSC 5840 and why its distinct categorization is crucial.

What is FSC 5840?

The systems and components within FSC 5840: Radar Equipment, Except Airborne are designed for ground-based, shipborne, and other non-aerial applications. This classification ensures that these specialized items are properly identified and managed for optimal compatibility. Their separation from airborne systems stems from fundamental differences in design, application, and operational requirements, as ground-based and shipborne radar equipment often necessitates distinct environmental adaptations and signal processing capabilities.

Notable FSC 5840 Assemblies

Surface Search Radar

Surface search radar systems are engineered to detect and track objects on land or water surfaces. These systems typically operate using high-frequency radio waves and employ pulse-doppler technology to differentiate between stationary and moving targets, as well as incorporating rotating antennas that provide 360-degree coverage. Some subtypes include:

• Navigation Radars: These systems assist vessels in navigation by identifying nearby ships and obstacles. Navigation radar units are designed with short-wavelength radio waves, allowing them to provide high-resolution imaging of objects even in poor visibility conditions.
• Coastal Surveillance Radars: These radars detect unauthorized coastal activities by using advanced signal processing algorithms to reduce interference from waves and clutter. Some models integrate synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology to generate high-resolution images for enhanced surveillance capabilities.

Weather Surveillance Radar

Weather surveillance radars are essential tools for meteorologists, facilitating the detection and tracking of weather phenomena to aid in forecasting and public safety measures. These systems typically use long-range radio waves to penetrate atmospheric disturbances and detect precipitation, wind patterns, and storm structures. They also often incorporate parabolic antennas for directional accuracy and high-powered transmitters to cover extensive areas, with notable variants including:

• Doppler Radars: Serving to measure the velocity of precipitation, Doppler radars provide insights into storm intensity and movement. These radars use the Doppler effect to analyze frequency shifts in returning signals, allowing meteorologists to determine wind speed and direction. Moreover, these systems often include dual-polarization technology, which differentiates between rain, snow, or hail.
• Weather Surveillance Radars (WSRs): WSR systems monitor and predict severe weather events, operating at high power levels to detect storm formations at great distances. Many modern WSR systems are equipped with phased-array antennas, which enable rapid scanning of weather patterns and improved accuracy in tracking severe storms.

Ground Control Approach (GCA) Radar

GCA radar systems guide aircraft during landing, which proves especially crucial under adverse weather conditions. These radars are designed with highly sensitive receivers and precision tracking capabilities to provide accurate guidance data, including separate transmitter and receiver units to minimize interference and enhance signal clarity. Two types serve to ensure aircraft safety:

• Precision Approach Radar (PAR): These systems offer exact horizontal and vertical guidance to pilots during the final approach phase, reducing the risk of landing incidents. They feature dual radar beams—one for azimuth (horizontal positioning) and one for elevation (vertical positioning)—which continuously track an aircraft's descent and provide real-time corrections to pilots.
• Surveillance Radar Approach (SRA): Unlike PARs, SRA radars focus on broader situational awareness rather than precise final approach correction. These radars have wide-beam coverage to track multiple aircraft simultaneously, offering controllers real-time data on each aircraft’s position and altitude.

Tracking Radar

Tracking radars are specialized to continuously monitor the position and movement of specific targets, designed with high-gain antennas and rapid beam-scanning mechanisms that provide real-time data. Furthermore, many tracking radars incorporate monopulse technology, which improves tracking accuracy by using simultaneous angle measurements. Some examples are:

• Target Tracking Radars: Employed in defense applications, these radars track and monitor potential threats to enable timely countermeasures. They often incorporate frequency agility, which allows the radar to switch between different frequencies to prevent jamming. Some models integrate laser ranging systems to enhance accuracy when tracking fast-moving objects.
• Missile Tracking Radars: These systems follow missiles during testing and operational deployments, ensuring accurate trajectory analysis. Their design includes high-speed processors that calculate missile velocity, altitude, and projected impact points in real-time.

ASAP Integrated: A Trusted Source for FSC 5840 Components

At ASAP Integrated, we understand the importance of sourcing high-quality components, our extensive inventory including a wide range of radar equipment and other items that are all traceable to reliable manufacturers. Whether customers are seeking in-demand or obscure parts, we are committed to providing competitive pricing and timely solutions, all while accommodating their unique needs. With such commitments in mind, be sure to explore our website for all the items that your operations require.