Abstract: Ground-based radars are essentials for air defense both on the battlefield and the national level. Since World War Two, the ground-based air defense radars have been widely used in different countries. In this paper, the developing status and trends for the ground-based air defense radars are illustrated: in technology, 3D system, phased array, frequency agility, low interception probability etc. are adopted; in design, combined air defense and anti-missile functions, tactical radar system development and mobility of the radar system are highlighted. The development of air defense/anti-missile radars in Russia is also analyzed.