ARMY AL&T
all military, civilian, domestic, and international requirements and man- dates must be met. Failure to adapt a platform to emerging requirements can result in a system being denied entry into an airspace.
Net-centric can be defined as enabling connectivity in the system-of-systems network architecture, wherein one system interacts or shares information with another system or platform.
The Mobile Tower System uses the latest in air traffic control digital technologies to better support U.S. Army tactical aviation. (Photo courtesy of PM ATC.)
A System of Subsystems Modern ATC systems are responsive not only to DOD but also to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards, mandates, and requirements. To better understand ATC modernization efforts, it is vitally important to realize that while the Army has a “system-of-systems” approach to battlefield C2 architecture, the key to ATC programs and platforms is a “system of subsystems.” Each ATC platform consists of multiple subsys- tems, the most important being radios, automation, and sensors.
Given that communication between con- trollers and aviators is a principal task for ATC, it is easy to identify radio commu- nications as the most critical capability; ATC band radios are the foundation of all Army ATC platforms. The move from analog to digital communications and the transition to software-defined radios marked a giant step forward in the controller’s ability to make all necessary contacts. The future of ATC involves modernizing radio capability by migrat- ing to the Joint Tactical Radio System on all ATC platforms.
Interoperability is the cornerstone mod- ernization requirement for all military programs. ATC is a nondenominational
service, provided to civil and military users alike worldwide. ATC facilities, systems, and support must be provided both at traditional airfields and at forward-deployed battlefields world- wide. This single requirement comes with a level of complexity not found with most other systems. Simply stated, each ATC platform must be able to communicate and interact with all air- craft, regardless of where that platform is located, while interfacing with other ATC and battle command systems. The magnitude of complexity comes into focus when we remember that
These systems are typically connected through a wireless or direct physical connection. Net-centric connectivity is possible only by incorporating man- dated information assurance regulations and requirements.
Future Technology The DOD ATC community works hand-in-hand with the FAA. Consequently, the FAA’s Next Gen program is being closely monitored. Next Gen is shifting the focus from uncooperative surveillance ground-based platforms to cooperative surveillance emanating from the aircraft. Aircraft self- reporting their positions will not only facilitate the transition from ATC to air traffic management but will also allow for a reduction in ground-based legacy sensors, including radar and secondary surveillance radars.
The AN/FPN-67 Fixed-Base Precision Approach Radar serves as the U.S. Army’s primary aid to recover aircraft to fixed-base airfields during adverse weather. (Photo courtesy of PM ATC.)
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