The integration of radar and precision approach capabilities transformed Palau flight operations into a fully monitored airspace that had previously relied on visual flight rules and pilot self-reporting.
“The eTLS is a combination precision approach guidance, precision approach radar (PAR) and secondary surveillance radar (SSR) system designed to provide all-weather airfield access and situational awareness for improved airport accessibility and safety,” explained Jon Grinter, Advanced Navigation and Positioning Corporation theodolite operator. “[The system] is a highly mobile and quickly deployable air traffic control solution designed for GPS-denied environments where conventional instrument landing system (ILS) equipment cannot be installed.”
The two-pallet system was deployed to Palau where a four-person team took nearly four hours to set up and calibrate the system, explained USAF 2nd Lt. Tristan Ritter, 270th CAOS director of operations. Once that was completed, Airmen from the 270th, 245th, and 258th CAOS teams operated the system for the remainder of the exercise, showcasing how its ILS, PAR, and SSR capabilities could be employed in a real-world environment.
While CAOS teams operated the system on the ground, pilots leveraged the benefits by inputting a discrete localizer frequency into their instrumentation allowing the eTLS to see the aircraft and CAOS Airmen to issue accurate vector and landing procedures to the pilots.
“The CAOS team has been awesome to work with as they controlled the airfield and airspace around Palau in a simulated combat environment,” said Capt. Alex “Slushi” Abbott, 115th Fighter Squadron, Wisconsin Air National Guard F-35A Lightning II pilot. “It was my first exposure to using the eTLS, and their knowledge and professionalism made it extremely easy to use when navigating into and around the airfield. Having this rapidly deployable capability to set up precision approaches in austere locations around the world is a huge advantage for the Air Force and other branches.”
This demonstration marked a significant leap in aviation safety and the ability to operate seamlessly from remote, austere airfields. During REFORPAC, the CAOS teams conducted 336 commercial, general aviation, and military flight operations.
“It’s all about aviation safety,” said Ritter. “We’re essentially bringing the National Airspace System, the safest airspace in the world, to Palau. For the first time, aircraft overhead are being monitored by professionals with eyes on them before they even approach the island. That’s peace of mind for both aviators and the public.”
As the Air Force drives ACE concepts across the Indo-Pacific, REFORPAC showcased how rapidly deployable systems and skilled Airmen can extend command and control and precision landing capabilities anywhere, anytime.
