Japan presented its medium- to long-range NEC-LR-02T radar at the World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia. The system stands out due to its uncommon cylindrical design — a configuration rarely seen among ground-based radar systems.
According to Army Recognition, reporting from the Japanese national pavilion, the display forms part of Tokyo's broader effort to promote its defense products to Middle Eastern countries. This aligns with Japan's current policy of expanding the geographic reach of its defense exports.
Read more: Japan Breaks Tradition, Exports PAC-3 Missiles to Replenish U.S. Stocks — Ukraine Blocked From Direct Supply
The NEC-LR-02T is capable of detecting fighter-sized targets at distances of up to 350 kilometers. Its cylindrical configuration enables full 360-degree coverage without the need for mechanical rotation.
The radar features an active electronically scanned array (AESA) and operates in the S-band, which offers a balanced combination of detection performance and resistance to adverse weather conditions. As a result, the S-band is widely used in medium- and long-range air surveillance systems.
The NEC-LR-02T is being promoted as a mobile radar designed to support long-range air defense missions. It can operate either as part of an integrated air defense network or independently, transmitting data to a broader command-and-control system.
According to the manufacturer, transportation requires two medium-sized trucks or a single transport aircraft, although the specific aircraft type has not been disclosed. Deployment can be completed by a team of six technicians in approximately 30 minutes.
From Defense Express' perspective, this represents an unusual form factor that offers clear advantages, particularly continuous 360-degree coverage without mechanical rotation mechanisms. However, cylindrical designs also have drawbacks, the most significant being operational and maintenance complexity. Flat-panel radar arrays are generally better optimized to maximize detection range and target accuracy, which explains why they are more commonly used than cylindrical solutions.
Overall, Japan is actively working to expand exports of its defense equipment. A notable recent step in this direction was the start of exports to the United States of locally produced PAC-3 MSE interceptors for the MIM-104 Patriot air defense system.
Read more: Japan Weighs Bayraktar UCAV Purchase After its Success in Ukraine
