APN-241 Radar Upgrade to allow for early identification of the drop zone, real-time airdrop damage estimates, real-time wind sensing (altitude to surface), displayed continuously computed impact point and launch acceptability region, and post-drop assessment.

CRITICAL NEED FOR SUPPORT- The ANG C-130H/J fleet have several shortfalls in their ability to accurately deliver airdrop loads in combat in both Instrument and Visual Meteorological Conditions (IMC/VMC).

STATES IMPACTED - All ANG C-130 Aircraft at CONUS and OCONUS sites

MISSION CRITICAL NEED - The U.S. Army’s objective for airdrop accuracy is 50 meters circular error average, but traditional methods only provide 300-meter accuracy. Current Precision Airdrop (PAD) methods require multiple passes over the drop zone (increasing exposure to threat) for atmospheric calculations before dropping loads.

DEPLOYMENTJUSTIFICATION- Targeting pods with light detection and ranging provide the necessary capabilities during VMC operations. Radar upgrades coupled with targeting pods and off-board cueing provide a highly accurate all weather single-pass airdrop capability that can be used to support domestic and contingency operations

FUNDING JUSTIFICATION - Funding out of the C-130 Operations and Maintenance funds along with National Gaurd and Reserve Equipment Account (Appn 0350) will funding the effort

USAF FUNDING TO DATE - USAF is considering this capability for their bases as well

ANG REQUIREMENT - 134 Radar Upgrade Kits for the APN-241 Radar