ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The 53rd Combat Airfield Operations Squadron at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, recently received a significant upgrade to its expeditionary capabilities with the delivery of two Air Traffic Navigation, Integration and Coordination System. This delivery marks a crucial step in modernizing the Air Force’s ability to rapidly establish air traffic control in austere and contested environments.
ATNAVICS v10, formerly known as the Lightweight Deployable Ground Approach Controlled System, is a fully autonomous and self-contained air traffic control system. Mounted on High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, the system can be transported by C-130 aircraft, ship, rail or truck, ensuring maximum deployment flexibility. This mobility is key to supporting the Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment concept, allowing for rapid deployment of air precision approach capability to forward operating locations.
“This system is a game changer for our squadron,” said Maj. Vincent Miranda, 53rd CAOS commander. “ATNAVICS gives us the ability to establish precision approach capability and secondary approach radar virtually anywhere in the world, enabling us to support a wide range of missions, from combat operations to humanitarian relief.”
The upgraded v10 hosts a 60 nautical mile primary surveillance radar, providing a comprehensive air picture and enhancing situational awareness for controllers. Sensors can connect to a tactical network—passing air track data to air defense management cells. The operations shelter houses positions for a supervisor and two controllers, who utilize software for efficient airspace management by providing real-time flight tracking and situational awareness for flight dispatchers, operations managers and airport personnel and provides precise flight position data, enhanced flight status information and alerts for adverse air and ground conditions.
"It’s mobility allows us to project power and respond to crises by quickly establishing air traffic control in any location, ensuring the safe and efficient flow of aircraft carrying personnel, equipment and supplies,” said Tech. Sgt. Jason Buck, 53rd CAOS ATNAVICS non-commissioned officer in charge. “The precision approach radar is critical for operations in adverse weather conditions, and the system's digital integration enhances overall situational awareness."
The arrival of ATNAVICS v10 provides a crucial stopgap, addressing a critical capability gap in air traffic control while the military prepares to field the advanced Multi-function Transportable Radar and Tactical Air Control System, which is currently in the planning and testing phase.
"In a disaster relief scenario, the ATNAVICS is invaluable. It allows us to rapidly establish an airfield and safely guide in aircraft carrying aid and medical supplies, even when existing infrastructure is damaged or destroyed. This can save lives and significantly accelerate the recovery process," Buck said.
The 53rd CAOS has been actively preparing for the system’s arrival. Airmen underwent extensive training, led by the program office’s consolidated training team, utilizing a “train-the-trainer” model, to ensure long-term operational and maintenance proficiency within the squadron.
Sustainment plans for the ATNAVICS v10 are well underway with contractor support to provide engineering, field service representative support, supply support, cybersecurity updates and replaceable unit repair line. Furthermore, the Air Force is actively collaborating with the U.S. Marine Corps to develop a joint plan to address component obsolescence, ensuring the system’s longevity and effectiveness for the foreseeable future.
"We are committed to ensuring the long-term viability of this critical system,” said Buck. "By leveraging existing supply chains and working closely with our partners in the Marine Corps, ATNAVICS will provide essential warfighter support for years to come.”
Training for the Air Force Flight Standards Agency survey, which focuses on the systems, software and strategic support survey, along with preparation of the training site, was conducted in late May, which led to formalized training in two parts before culminating in a local acceptance flight inspection, operational utility evaluation report and full operational status in August.
By providing robust and deployable air traffic control capabilities, ATNAVICS represents an investment in the Air Force’s ability to control the air domain in any environment, enhancing the agility, responsiveness and effectiveness of air power, ultimately contributing to mission success across the spectrum of conflict.
The 53rd Combat Airfield Operations Squadron, formerly the 53rd Air Traffic Control Squadron, is a unit at Robins Air Force Base with a mission to provide rapid, austere airfield opening, precision approach capabilities and landing zone services globally. They specialize in establishing and operating tactical airfields, including air traffic control and radar systems, often in support of combatant commanders.