The ATNAVICS is a highly mobile, self-contained, tactical airport surveillance radar (ASR) with precision approach radar (PAR) capabilities that provide GCA at designated airfields and landing sites. The system includes ASR and PAR, secondary surveillance radar/identification friend or foe (SSR/IFF) and secure jam-resistant voice communications. The system is the world's only fully autonomous, International Civil Aviation Organization and National Airspace-compliant radar approach control system transportable in a single C-130 or by CH-47.
The system can operate in austere weather conditions and has successfully supported combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan for more than five years. The ATNAVICS comprises an S-band air surveillance radar, an L-band secondary surveillance radar/IFF and an X-band PAR. The ATNAVICS contains multiple communication capabilities, including VHF, UHF and FM. The ASR antenna provides 360-degree azimuth surveillance coverage within 25 nautical miles (NM), while the SSR antenna provides coverage out to 60 NM. Additionally, the system is capable of withstanding radio frequency signal jamming/detection and electromagnetic pulse while providing continuous air traffic control (ATC) coverage.
Army controllers use numerous methods and systems for providing ATC services. However, when a pilot's visibility is obstructed or the weather deteriorates to the point of instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), the ATNAVICS can be the difference between a safe landing and tragedy. ATNAVICS provides precision movements on the final approach course to the runway, lane or helipad.
The system is not just an automated piece of equipment; a human component is also involved. Army air traffic controllers operate the system and communicate with pilots throughout the approach. The ATNAVICS has precise measurements on the PAR antenna, displaying the distance from 10 NM to the aircraft touchdown point. It also shows the optimal altitude descent angle, allowing the controller to line the aircraft target signal precisely on glide path. When the controller keeps the aircraft on the glide path and on the runway heading course line, the pilot is then on a safe approach and clear of all obstacles to the landing area.
Both pilots and controllers believe the ATNAVICS is an effective and extremely valuable asset. Maj. Todd H. Marshburn, Task Force 164th Theater Airfield Operations Group operations officer, said, "Flying a GCA is a wonderful experience ... the ATNAVICS instills confidence and provides comfort to pilots encountering IMC."
The ATNAVICS is part of the Air Traffic Services Company within the General Support Aviation Battalion and organic to the Airfield Operations Battalion. The system is used at locations with a very high density of air traffic with both rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft. The system can also deploy in support of combat operations and homeland security (natural disasters) roles.
As with anything, practice makes perfect. Aviators should never pass up a chance to contact their local GCA facility when returning to their airfield and practice flying the approach, which benefits both controllers and aviators. Don't be complacent, practice your local GCA and, when you need it, you and the controller will be ready.
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