SCR-602
The SCR-602 (Set Complete Radio model 602) also known as the AN/TPS-3, was a mobile, lightweight, medium-range, early-warning radar utilized by the United States and its allies during World War II. The radar was originally designed for use during the initial stages of an amphibious assault or military operation where its lightweight relative to other radar systems was a distinct advantage. Once larger radars such as the SCR-270 or AN/TPS-1 came online the SCR-602 could also be used to fill in gaps in radar coverage.
Country of origin | United States |
---|---|
Introduced | 1943 |
Type | 2D air-search |
Frequency | 176 MHz-202 MHz |
PRF | 400 Hz |
Pulsewidth | 2 microseconds |
RPM | 5 RPM |
Range | 70 miles (110 km) |
Azimuth | 0–360° |
Power | 100 kW peak |
Numerous variations of the SCR-602 were manufactured during the war. It was utilized by the United States, United Kingdom and Australia.
Developing the radar
Development of the SCR-602 began in 1942 at the behest of Colonel Gordon P. Saville of the United States Army Air Corps. With delays to the manufacture and fielding of both the SCR-588 and SCR-527, the Air Corps was quickly seeking another radar for ground-controlled interception. This new radar was an adaptation of the United Kingdom's Chain Home Low radar.[1][2]
Operational history
The SCR-602 was developed in time to be utilized by the U.S. Army during the invasion of North Africa in November 1942.
See also
- Signal Corps Radio
- List of U.S. Signal Corps Vehicles
Citation
- "AN/TPS-3". www.radartutorial.eu. Retrieved 7 August 2020.
- Wendt & Orchiston 2018, pp. 66.
- "VK2DYM'S RADIO AND RADAR INFORMATION". Retrieved 7 August 2020.
References
- Bibliography
- Journal
- Wendt, Harry; Orchiston, Wayne (2018). "The Contribution of the AN/TPS-3 Radar Antenna to Australian Radio Astronomy" (PDF). Journal of Astronomical History & Heritage. 21 (1): 65–80. Retrieved 7 August 2020.
- Web
- Technical Manuals
- TM 11-1126 - Radio Sets SCR-602-A and SCR-602-T6 - War Department - September 1943
- TM 11-1326 - Radio Sets SCR-602-T6 and 602A Technical Operation - War Department - May 1944
- TM 11-1426 - Preventive Maintenance Radio Sets SCR-602A and SCR-602-T6 - War Department - June 1944
- TM 11-1526 - Service Manual For Radio Sets SCR-602 - War Department - July 1944.