ONWA offers two marine radars with CE marking: the KRA-1007N and KRA-1009N.
Both are compatible with K-Astral and KM-Series chartplotters.
But what are the differences and similarities? And which radar antenna is best suited for your boat and sailing area?
This blog discusses the features and strengths of both radar antennas.
1. Specifications – overview in a table
| Feature | ONWA KRA‑1007N | ONWA KRA‑1009N |
|---|---|---|
| Radar type | X‑band magnetron radar | X‑band magnetron radar |
| Max. output power | 4 kW | 4 kW |
| Antenna type | Radome | Radome |
| Antenna length | 55 cm | 46 cm |
| Horizontal beamwidth | 4° | 5° |
| Vertical beamwidth | 25° | 25° |
| Antenna speed | Fixed: 24 RPM (±2) | Variable: • 48 RPM (short range) • 36 RPM (mid-range) • 24 RPM (long range) |
| Max. radar range | 36 NM | 36 NM |
| Frequency | 9410 ± 30 MHz (X‑band) | 9410 ± 30 MHz (X‑band) |
| Pulse settings | 0.08 / 0.3 / 0.8 µs | 0.08 / 0.3 / 0.8 µs |
| Digital signal processing | Yes | Yes |
| Sea & rain clutter filtering | Yes | Yes |
| Connection | Ethernet (RJ‑45) | Ethernet (RJ‑45) |
| Power supply | 10.5 – 40 VDC | 10.5 – 40 VDC |
| Weight / size | Larger and heavier | More compact and lighter |
| Wind resistance | 100 knots | 100 knots |
2. Practical differences in use
Resolution and target discrimination
-
KRA‑1007N
Thanks to its narrower beam (4°), this radar offers better target discrimination at medium and long distances. Objects such as buoys, ships, and coastlines remain clearly distinguishable. -
KRA‑1009N
Slightly wider beam (5°), but this is compensated by a higher rotation speed at short range (48 RPM). This makes the radar very responsive during maneuvering.
3. Suitability per type of vessel
🚤 Motor yacht
Best choice: KRA‑1007N
Why:
- Better long-range clarity (4° beam)
- Consistent performance at cruising speed
- Ideal for transit, night navigation, and low visibility
- Less critical about mounting height
Typical use:
- Long journeys
- Coastal navigation
- Busy waterways
⛵ Sailing yacht
Best choice: KRA‑1009N
Why:
- More compact and lighter → suitable for mast mounting
- Fast updates at short range (48 RPM)
- Very good at low speeds and maneuvering
- Designed with yachting in mind
Typical use:
- Sailing trips
- Anchoring
- Harbor entry and exit
4. Best radar per sailing environment
| Sailing environment | Best radar | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Narrow inland waterways | KRA‑1009N | Fast rotation provides immediate image at short distances |
| Wide inland waterways | KRA‑1009N | Good balance between detail and overview |
| Open sea / coastal waters | KRA‑1007N | Better long-range clarity and target discrimination |
| Harbor entrances | KRA‑1009N | Fast target update during maneuvering |
| Night navigation / fog | KRA‑1007N | Calmer image and better target separation |
5. Summary advice
-
Choose the ONWA KRA‑1007N if you:
- Have a motor yacht
- Regularly sail open waters and coastal areas
- Prioritize long-range clarity
-
Choose the ONWA KRA‑1009N if you:
- Have a sailing yacht or compact motor yacht
- Often sail in harbors and inland waterways
- Are looking for a light, mast-mountable radar