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Type 346 radar

The Type 346 radar, designated by NATO as Dragon Eye, is a Chinese-developed multifunction (AESA) system operating in the S- and C-bands, designed for naval air and surface surveillance, target acquisition, tracking, and guidance of surface-to-air missiles on advanced destroyers. It features four fixed-face antennas, each equipped with approximately 1,524 transmitter/receiver (T/R) modules, providing 360-degree coverage without mechanical rotation. The S-band channel (3.0–3.4 GHz) handles primary surveillance functions, while the C-band channel (5.25–5.95 GHz) supports precision tracking and missile illumination, enabling detection of , helicopters, surface vessels, and incoming missiles at ranges up to 150 nautical miles (280 km) for the baseline model. Introduced into service in 2004 aboard the Navy's () Type 052C Luyang II-class destroyers, the Type 346 marked China's first deployment of a shipborne AESA , significantly enhancing fleet air defense capabilities through integration with the vertical launch system (VLS) for HHQ-9 long-range surface-to-air missiles (range: 55–80 nautical miles). It draws design influences from systems like the U.S. but incorporates indigenous AESA technology for multifunction operations, including simultaneous air and surface search modes. Deployed on the six Type 052C destroyers, it forms the backbone of 's area air defense. Subsequent variants have expanded its role on newer platforms. The Type 346A, featuring flat-panel antenna covers and an enlarged aperture, offers an extended detection range of up to 400 km and improved resolution, equipping over 25 Type 052D Luyang III-class destroyers as of 2025. The advanced Type 346B, introduced on the Type 055 Renhai-class cruisers starting in 2020, incorporates additional X-band capabilities for enhanced precision targeting and a maximum range of 500–600 km, supporting a broader suite of weapons including anti-ship missiles and HQ-9B interceptors. These evolutions underscore the Type 346 family's progression toward low-probability-of-intercept operations and multi-threat engagement, positioning it as one of the most capable naval radars in Chinese service.

Design and Features

Phased Array Configuration

The Type 346 radar employs an (AESA) configuration consisting of four fixed octagonal faces mounted on the ship's , enabling 360-degree coverage without mechanical rotation. Each face integrates an array of transmit/receive modules (TRMs) that facilitate electronic and multi-function operations, including simultaneous search, tracking, and illumination tasks. This baseline design utilizes approximately 1,524 TRMs per face (total ~6,100), supporting rapid beam agility essential for modern naval air defense. The radar operates in the S-band, with frequencies ranging from 3.0 to 3.4 GHz and an estimated of 2940 MHz derived from TRM dimensions. The antenna faces measure approximately 4 meters in diameter, each yielding an of about 12.5 m² (total ~50 m²), which contributes to the system's and resolution. In the initial version, the arrays are protected by convex covering panels that serve as radomes, providing environmental shielding while aiding in integration by shaping the . The baseline Type 346 features an air-cooled design for thermal management of the TRMs and associated electronics, with the total system weighing approximately 8 tons (about 2 tons per face). output is generated at the level to support distributed transmission, integrated with onboard hardware that enables and adaptive generation for versatile mission profiles. This hardware architecture underscores the AESA's role in providing agile , allowing the radar to prioritize threats dynamically in complex electromagnetic environments.

Operational Modes and Capabilities

The Type 346 radar operates in multiple modes, enabling simultaneous air and surface search, , tracking, and fire control guidance for surface-to-air missiles such as the HQ-9. Its (AESA) design supports multi-functionality by rapidly steering beams across tasks without mechanical movement, allowing the system to handle diverse threats in real-time. This integration facilitates seamless coordination with weapon systems, where the radar provides illumination and mid-course updates for missiles, enhancing the ship's area air defense posture. In terms of detection and tracking, the baseline Type 346 achieves a of up to 280 kilometers (150 nautical miles) for fighter-sized under optimal conditions, with enhanced performance against low-observable targets due to its S-band operation, which exploits resonance effects in stealth designs to improve signal returns. The system can simultaneously track over 100 targets, incorporating automatic prioritization based on threat level, speed, and to maintain in dense environments. Four fixed-array faces provide 360-degree coverage, eliminating blind spots and supporting continuous monitoring of airborne and maritime threats. The radar incorporates dual-band elements, primarily S-band for long-range search and surveillance, augmented by C-band elements for precision tracking and potential uplink/downlink communications, which refines accuracy in phases. (ECCM) features include frequency agility to evade jamming and low sidelobe levels for reduced vulnerability to noise and deception, ensuring reliable operation in contested electromagnetic spectra. These capabilities position the Type 346 as a of integrated air defense, enabling layered protection through networked and threat evaluation across naval formations.

Development

Origins and Research

The development of the Type 346 radar was initiated in the late by the Nanjing Research Institute of Electronics Technology (NRIET), also known as the CETC 14th Research Institute, under the (CETC). This effort marked a significant step in China's pursuit of indigenous advanced technologies, building on NRIET's longstanding role as the cradle of the nation's industry since its founding in 1946. The primary motivation stemmed from China's strategic need for sophisticated naval air defense systems capable of countering U.S. Aegis-equipped capabilities, a gap starkly revealed during the 1995-1996 Crisis when American carrier battle groups demonstrated unchallenged dominance in the region. This event accelerated Beijing's naval modernization program, emphasizing multi-role radars to enhance maritime situational awareness and anti-access/area-denial operations under (PLAN) directives. Research and development evolved through integration of domestic (AESA) technology to surpass limitations of passive arrays. Key milestones included initial prototypes in the late 1990s. The program was funded through state-backed initiatives aligned with requirements for versatile naval platforms, culminating in the radar's designation H/LJG-346, "Dragon Eye," and internal moniker "Star of the Sea." Subsequent production has continued, with over 30 units built by 2025 across variants for ongoing modernization.

Testing and Initial Deployment

Prototype testing of the Type 346 radar commenced in the early 2000s at facilities of the Research Institute of Electronics Technology (NRIET), where land-based evaluations emphasized beam accuracy and system reliability. These initial assessments validated the radar's (AESA) design for naval applications, drawing from late 1990s research origins at NRIET. Sea trials began with the first installation on a test ship in 2003, marking a key step toward operational . This was followed by outfitting the lead , DDG-170 , with the radar system, culminating in its operational entry into service in 2004. During these trials, engineers addressed integration challenges with the ship's command-and-control systems, ensuring seamless for air defense operations. A primary focus was achieving full 360-degree coverage through the four-panel AESA configuration, which overcame limitations in sector scanning and enhanced multi-threat monitoring. Final evaluations in 2003-2004 exercises demonstrated the radar's capability for multi-target tracking, successfully detecting and engaging simulated threats in complex scenarios. These results confirmed the system's reliability, paving the way for production approval and broader adoption on . Minor adjustments were made to mitigate environmental factors such as shipboard vibration, ensuring sustained performance during extended deployments.

Variants

Type 346

The Type 346 radar was introduced in 2004 and serves exclusively as the primary air search and multifunction radar system for the six Type 052C Luyang II-class destroyers in the . This baseline variant is characterized by its convex panels enclosing the four octagonal , an air-cooled thermal management system, and a standard complement of approximately 1,524 transmit/receive modules per , for a total of about 6,096 modules distributed across the arrays. It equips the hull numbers DDG-150 (), DDG-151 (), DDG-152 (), DDG-153 (), DDG-170 (), and DDG-171 (). As of 2025, these vessels are undergoing mid-life overhauls that may include upgrades to the and associated systems. Compared to subsequent variants, the Type 346 demonstrates a shorter maximum detection range of approximately 280 km (150 nautical miles) and reduced power efficiency, limitations that were targeted for improvement in later iterations. The emphasizes shipboard reliability through its , enabling straightforward replacement of individual transmit/receive modules during routine maintenance to minimize downtime.

Type 346A

The Type 346A represents an iterative upgrade to the baseline Type 346 radar, first entering service in 2012 aboard the Navy's Type 052D Luyang III-class destroyers. This variant equips the four fixed-face (AESA) configuration typical of the class, providing multifunction capabilities for air search, tracking, and fire control in support of the ship's vertical launch (VLS). Key enhancements in the Type 346A include the adoption of flat panels, replacing the curved design of the original Type 346 to facilitate improved cooling and potentially lower the overall radar cross-section of the host . The features a larger with an increased number of transmit/receive modules (TRMs), enabling an extended detection range of up to 400 against aerial targets. The employs an advanced liquid cooling system, shifting from the air-cooled setup of the baseline model, which supports higher duty cycles and greater power output for sustained operations. This upgrade contributes to a higher system weight of approximately 9 tons but enhances reliability in demanding environments. Further refinements include advanced algorithms that improve resistance to electronic jamming, allowing more robust performance in contested electromagnetic spectra. The Type 346A also integrates seamlessly with the Type 052D's weapon suite, including the anti-ship launched from the 64-cell VLS, for coordinated strike operations. As of November 2025, the Type 346A had been fitted to approximately 30 Type 052D destroyers in service, with ongoing construction at Chinese shipyards indicating continued production and fleet expansion.

Type 346B

The Type 346B radar represents an upgraded variant of the Type 346 series, tailored for integration into the Type 055 Renhai-class cruisers, with initial installations occurring around during the lead ship's construction. This four-panel (AESA) system serves as the primary sensor for air and surface surveillance on these vessels, enabling comprehensive multi-mission capabilities including long-range detection and fire control. Key enhancements in the Type 346B include S-band arrays that are approximately 40% larger than those on the preceding Type 346A variant, providing increased transmission power and sensitivity for superior performance in challenging environments. The system incorporates advanced () components and improved heat dissipation technologies, allowing for extended operational durations without performance degradation. These modifications support a flat-panel design that aligns with the stealth-oriented integrated mast structure of the Type 055, minimizing the ship's overall cross-section while optimizing placement on the cruiser's larger superstructure. Additionally, the features enhanced () through embedded , improving resistance to and saturation attacks. In terms of performance, the Type 346B offers detection ranges exceeding 400 km, with particular efficacy against stealthy targets such as low-observable and low-Earth orbit satellites at altitudes of 300–500 km. It operates primarily in the S-band for mid-to-long-range search and tracking, complemented by X-band elements for precise fire control against low-flying threats like anti-ship missiles, and integrates with the ship's L-band radars for , forming a multi-band (S/C/X) suite. This configuration enhances the Type 055's ability to detect and engage diverse threats, including improved countermeasures through dual-band operation. The radar's strategic value lies in its support for , including potential theater defense (TBMD) roles via compatibility with advanced vertical launch systems, contributing to the Navy's high-end . By 2025, the Type 346B has been produced for at least eight Type 055 cruisers in active service, with additional units under construction to expand this capability.

Platforms and Deployment

Type 052C Destroyers

The baseline Type 346 radar was first integrated on the Type 052C (Luyang II-class) guided-missile destroyers, comprising a fleet of six ships that marked the People's Liberation Army Navy's (PLAN) initial foray into advanced phased-array radar-equipped surface combatants. The lead ships, DDG-170 Lanzhou and DDG-171 Haikou, were commissioned in 2004 and 2005, respectively, following launches in 2003, while the subsequent four—DDG-150 Changchun, DDG-151 Zhengzhou, DDG-152 Jinan, and DDG-153 Xi'an—entered service between 2013 and 2015 after construction delays at Jiangnan Shipyard. These vessels represented a pivotal step in enhancing the PLAN's area air defense capabilities through the Type 346's multi-function S- and C-band active electronically scanned array (AESA) configuration, which supports simultaneous air search, tracking, and missile guidance for the HHQ-9 surface-to-air missile system. On the Type 052C, the Type 346 radar is installed as four fixed panels on the superstructure above the bridge, forming a pyramid-like structure that ensures full 360-degree azimuthal coverage without mechanical rotation, a design that optimizes the destroyer's Aegis-like architecture for fleet air defense. This setup is complemented by the Type 364 radar, an S-band system operating as a secondary for low-altitude air and surface search, providing backup detection in scenarios where the primary AESA might face limitations. The integration emphasized the radar's role in coordinating vertical launch system (VLS) operations, with 48 cells dedicated to HHQ-9 missiles, enabling the destroyers to function as command nodes for layered air defense in task groups. In operational service, the Type 052C destroyers leveraged the Type 346 for area air defense during early PLAN exercises and patrols, contributing to proficiency in , air defense, and surface engagements as the navy expanded beyond coastal waters in the mid-2000s. These platforms supported the 's offshore defense strategy by providing and missile illumination, though their full remained untested in high-intensity scenarios at the time. By the , minor software updates to the Type 346 addressed bottlenecks and signal handling issues, enhancing HHQ-9 guidance accuracy without altering the radar's hardware, while mid-life overhauls resolved overheating problems to sustain performance. As of 2025, all six Type 052C destroyers remain in active service across fleets, with several assigned to the , underscoring the baseline Type 346's proven reliability through over 20 years of operations for the earliest hulls like . Planned service lives extend to 30-35 years, supported by ongoing modernizations that integrate the radar with evolving command-and-control systems, ensuring continued relevance in regional air defense roles.

Type 052D and Type 055 Destroyers

The , known in as the Luyang III class, represents a significant expansion in the (PLAN) surface fleet, with over 30 ships commissioned as of late 2025. These vessels integrate the Type 346A (AESA) radar, which provides enhanced guidance for the ship's 64-cell vertical launch system (VLS), supporting extended-range surface-to-air missiles such as the HHQ-9B for improved air defense capabilities. The , designated Renhai-class cruiser by , has seen ten units commissioned as of November 2025, following the lead ship's launch in 2017; the tenth unit completed sea trials and was commissioned on 8 November 2025. Equipped with the more advanced Type 346B AESA variant, these cruisers offer superior tracking of high-speed threats, including hypersonic missiles, through larger radar arrays and increased power output compared to earlier models. Integration advancements on both classes include dual-radar configurations, such as pairing the Type 346A or 346B with the Type 518 L-band radar for complementary air and surface search functions, enabling networked operations via secure data links that support coordination. These platforms have been deployed in missions throughout the , participating in exercises that demonstrate (A2/AD) strategies, such as layered networks in the . Ongoing production plans aim for over 40 total ships across the Type 052D and Type 055 classes, with continued construction at major shipyards like and to bolster blue-water capabilities, though export of the Type 346 radar family remains restricted and unfulfilled despite inquiries from potential partners.

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