Mu-MFTR

The Mu-MFTR is a multi-frequency tracking radar developed by Weibel Scientific, a Danish manufacturer based in Allerød. Introduced in 2019, the system is designed to detect, track, and classify low, slow, and small aerial objects, including micro-unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and quadcopters. The radar operates on Doppler principles to identify targets at ranges exceeding 5 kilometers, a capability that conventional air-defense radars often miss due to clutter from ground returns or weather. The system features simultaneous multi-target tracking and employs AI-assisted classification to distinguish between drones and birds, addressing the growing threat of unmanned systems in contested airspace.

Technically, the Mu-MFTR utilizes a multi-frequency approach to enhance detection reliability. The hardware is robust enough to be mounted on mobile trailer platforms for land-based deployment or on deck adapters with full motion compensation for sea-going vessels. This flexibility allows the radar to function in both static perimeter monitoring and dynamic naval environments. The system’s primary role is short-range air defense (SHORAD) and critical infrastructure protection, providing early warning and precise tracking data for integrated air defense networks. While the manufacturer highlights its ability to classify objects, independent verification of its specific AI classification accuracy in combat conditions remains limited, as the system is primarily marketed for pre-combat detection and tracking rather than kinetic engagement.

The Mu-MFTR has been adopted by several Western militaries and government agencies. Operators include the armed forces of Denmark, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany. In the United States, the system has been integrated into Department of Energy facilities. In July 2024, the US Department of Energy awarded a contract for two Weibel Medium Range Radars, specifically the MFTR-2100/42-2160 model, to Sandia National Laboratory. These units were selected as preferred target tracking systems to support operational testing requirements at national labs. Additionally, in January 2025, Weibel Scientific North America was awarded a follow-on contract for a second 45dB tracking radar, the MFTR-2100/45-3840, further demonstrating confidence in the system’s instrumentation capabilities for critical missions.

The system is part of Weibel’s broader portfolio of Doppler radars, which also includes solutions for ballistic missile defense and space situational awareness. The Mu-MFTR does not engage targets directly but provides the tracking data necessary for interceptor systems or electronic warfare assets to neutralize threats. Its deployment in naval configurations highlights its utility in protecting fleet assets from drone swarms. As the threat landscape evolves with the proliferation of commercial and military drones, the Mu-MFTR serves as a specialized sensor node in layered air defense architectures, particularly for protecting high-value assets where conventional radar coverage is insufficient.