SOURCE: AFI
Swedish defense giant Saab has introduced its innovative r-TWR deployable solution to the Indian Air Force, offering a new dimension to air traffic control (ATC) directly on the battlefield. This system, as described by Mats Palmberg, Chairman and Managing Director of Saab India, can revolutionize how air traffic services are managed, especially in dynamic and challenging operational environments.
The r-TWR, or Remote Tower, is designed to act as an air traffic control facility that can be deployed rapidly, with installation taking only one hour, and is portable enough to be transported by a C-130J aircraft. This capability makes it immensely valuable for military operations where traditional air traffic control towers might not be feasible or where the battlefield conditions are fluid.
“The beauty of the r-TWR is that it can be operated by someone sitting hundreds of kilometers away,” Palmberg explained. This feature not only enhances safety by keeping personnel away from combat zones but also allows for more efficient management of air traffic from secure, centralized locations.
The r-TWR Family of Digital Towers is engineered for flexibility and modularity, ensuring there’s a version suitable for every Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) and air force. These systems can be customized to meet specific operational needs, offering solutions like:
- Full Remote Tower: Enabling air traffic services from any location, not limited by physical proximity to the airport or base.
- Hybrid Solutions: Integrating r-TWR functions with traditional control towers to enhance capabilities or manage specific areas like ramp and apron more effectively.
- Deployable and Mobile Use: Perfect for temporary, emergency, or military operations where quick setup and relocation are crucial.
This technology leverages digital camera systems and advanced sensors to provide operators with comprehensive visual surveillance, thereby allowing them to manage air traffic, guide aircraft, and monitor airfield activities remotely. This not only optimizes the use of space at airports or air bases but also reduces the human risk in conflict zones.
The r-TWR’s potential applications for the Indian Air Force are vast, ranging from enhancing control at forward operating bases during conflicts, managing air traffic at remote or temporary airfields, to providing a backup for existing control towers in case of damage or overload.
Saab’s proposal comes at a time when the Indian military is increasingly looking towards technological solutions to bolster its operational efficiency and strategic depth. The r-TWR could offer significant advantages in terms of operational flexibility, cost-efficiency, and safety for air operations in varied and often unpredictable environments.
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