From research to application: How phased array radars conquered the real world

This paper describes the historical development and status of active phased array radar technology and how they are used in today´s systems - with special emphasis on cost aspects, market prices and funding. The hardware related price drivers are mostly understood and currently optimized e.g. by introduction of new semiconductors and light-weight materials. This is not valid for new algorithms, resource management and signal processing, where research is not that advanced. The authors also discuss cost issues, which are in comparison with technology an equal decisive driver for introducing such radars. Given examples and prices focus on European radars primarily.