Leonardo DRS Launched New cxMHR Radar System

The defense firm introduced a portable C-band radar featuring advanced 360-degree hemispheric coverage capabilities.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Robotics

Leonardo DRS Launched New cxMHR Radar System

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Should the U.S. invest in new, long-range digital radar technologies for missile defense?

Leonardo DRS has launched the cxMHR radar system, a fully digital C-band Active Electronically Scanned Array designed for defense applications. The system utilizes four AESA panels to provide comprehensive 360-degree hemispheric surveillance.

Why it matters

This system supports modern defense requirements by integrating AI-enabled tracking and Identification Friendly or Foe technology into a portable unit. It is engineered to meet Modular Open Systems Approach standards for improved adaptability.

The cxMHR radar system provides 360-degree hemispheric coverage with detection ranges exceeding 90 kilometers against unmanned aircraft and 330 kilometers against transport aircraft. The hardware incorporates four AESA panels into a single ISO-containerized unit.

The players

Leonardo DRS

This defense contractor is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and provides integrated products, services, and support to military forces and intelligence agencies.

The details

The system features AI-enabled tracking and classification capabilities to assist in target identification. Its design allows for deployment within a single containerized unit for transportability, supporting rapid relocation in the field.

Leonardo DRS announced the launch of the cxMHR radar on October 12, 2026.
The radar system was exhibited at AUSA Annual 2026 between October 12, 2026 and October 14, 2026.

The Tech Race

The introduction of the cxMHR radar marks a significant shift toward modular, containerized sensor suites in the defense sector. This design follows the industry-wide transition to the Modular Open Systems Approach, moving away from rigid, proprietary hardware architectures.

While the system is specialized for military use, its deployment may influence the operational speed and data-gathering capabilities of defense personnel. Users benefit from AI-enabled tracking that reduces the burden of manual target identification.

The takeaway

The cxMHR radar demonstrates a growing industry focus on integrating advanced AI classification into compact, mobile defense platforms. These systems are designed to improve situational awareness by providing long-range detection of both drones and larger transport craft.