Ground Based Radar Digitization (GBRD)

REVISION ISSUED 23 FEB 2026.

The U.S. Space Force is modernizing critical missile defense radars, including five Upgraded Early Warning Radars (UEWR) and the Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS), through the Ground-Based Radar Digitization (GBRD) Program. These aging systems are nearing obsolescence, necessitating technological upgrades. GBRD aims to digitize these radars for enhanced battlespace awareness, reduced sustainment costs, and resolution of obsolescence challenges.

Using a Middle Tier Acquisition (MTA) Rapid Prototyping acquisition pathway approach, GBRD will first prototype solutions at two sites (one UEWR and PARCS) before proceeding with Rapid Fielding production for the remaining UEWR locations. This strategy enables agile development and rapid deployment of modernized capabilities. This modernization improves radar weapon system effectiveness and efficiency through commonality, sustainable support, and optimized human interaction, including a digital ecosystem, modular design, and a common baseline. In addition, with collaboration with MDA, MD capability at PARCS will be added.

GBRD leverages advanced technologies like digital engineering, DevSecOps, and open systems architecture to ensure rapid delivery. A near-common automation platform will replace disparate operating systems, address inefficiencies and enhance interoperability between the MW, MD, and SDA missions. Ultimately, GBRD will overcome current UEWR and PARCS limitations like lack of automation, inflexible design, and high maintenance costs, enabling improved data integration, accelerated deployment, stronger cybersecurity, and enhanced adaptability to evolving threats.

By systematically integrating data-driven insight capabilities, the GBRD aims to transform its vast data repositories into actionable intelligence, enabling proactive responses to emerging threats and optimizing resource allocations. This strategic adoption will ensure that the radars remain agile, resilient, and ahead of adversaries in a rapidly evolving space based operating environment.