Saab’s multi-mission radar Giraffe AMB is in operational service with the Australian Army protecting the troops on deployment in Afghanistan. The system provides early detection of attacks from insurgent rockets, artillery and mortars keeping the troops safe.
As the vital part of the Australian Defence Force’s Counter-Rocket Artillery and Mortar system (C-RAM) the Giraffe AMB has continued to prove its force protection capabilities. The early warning provided greatly enhances the survivability of Australian and other ISAF forces, providing increased warning of an imminent attack to enable them to take appropriate shelter.
"We are providing our troops with the equipment they need. That includes the CRAM Counter-rocket radar system. There has been some great work done by Saab to deliver this capability – on budget and five months ahead of schedule. And I congratulate them for it. It has been operating at Tarin Kot since December and has already been activated 10 times, providing an early warning against rocket and mortar attacks." Stated the Minister for Defence Materiel, The Hon Jason Clare on 29 June 2011.
A later incident was a night attack when three rockets were fired at the Tarin Kot base on 19 July. Deputy Commander Colonel David Smith praised the fact that there were no casualties.
“C-RAM proved effective in providing personnel with an early warning of the incoming threat, giving those outside suitable time to take cover.”
Furthermore, the C-RAM project which delivered the Giraffe AMB to the Australian Army has won a prestigious award from the Australian Institute of Project Management which encourages excellence through professionalism in project management. The C-RAM project won the defence and aerospace category and also the project of the year in the state of Victoria.
Giraffe AMB is a flexible series of modular surveillance systems. Fully fitted, the system includes capabilities for simultaneous air defence, air and sea surveillance, air/land integration, military air traffic control and rocket, artillery and mortar alert.
The system is part of Saab's continuously evolving radar program and provides the highest performance for critical targets and proven reliability. Giraffe has become the radar of choice for armed forces worldwide, whether part of vital point protection or area air defence solutions. The Giraffe is in current production and in use with the armed forces of Sweden, France, Estonia and the UK amongst others.