How many targets can the AWG-9 radar track at once?

Short answer

Up to 24 targets at once. The AWG-9 weapons control system could track 24 targets simultaneously and allow six of them to be fired upon at the same time. In TWS mode, those six could be engaged out to about 97 km (60 mi). It detected large bombers beyond 150 NM.

Published: November 1, 2026 · Updated: November 1, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

How many targets can the AWG-9 radar track at once?

F-14A Tomcat over Iraq during Southern Watch

Twenty-four tracks, six shots

The AWG-9 weapons control system could track up to 24 targets at once and allow simultaneous fire against six of them. With a maximum of 24 targets tracked simultaneously, six could be engaged in TWS mode out to about 97 km (60 mi).

Detection ranges

The radar could detect large bombers at distances greater than 150 nautical miles. Against smaller targets, such as fighters, tracking was estimated at about 90 nautical miles. Low-flying cruise missiles skimming the sea at 50 ft altitude were tracked and destroyed by the AWG-9 and the AIM-54 at 22 nautical miles, with the shot fired from an F-14 at 10,000 ft.

The system's missile

The AIM-54 Phoenix measured 12 ft 9½ in (3.9 m) in length. Its diameter was 15 in (380 mm) and its control surface span was 2 ft 11½ in (0.9 m). The AIM-54A/B versions weighed 976 lb (443 kg). The warhead weighed 133 lb (60.33 kg). Guidance combined semi-active radar with active radar in the terminal phase.