![]() Thales is the world leader in the sector of Navigation Aids with 7000 Navaids installed in 170 countries and it has been providing TACAN systems to Norway for approximately 30 years. The dual configuration of this system makes it highly available and capable of supporting civil air navigation with integrated Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) functionality. ![]() Thales TACANs are the most advanced on the market, featuring high reliability, adaptation to the most difficult locations, improved accuracy performance and extended VHF Radio Frequency spectrum for simultaneous interrogation of up to 200 aircraft as well as an innovative human machine interface (HMI). The tactical air navigation (TACAN) system used by all military aircraft recently received extensive upgrades, bringing the system state-of-the-art functionality. The Thales TACAN system is used by 14 other NATO countries. This contract also includes the provision of training, documentation and spares parts. It will be installed at various sites and military airbases across the country thus ensuring full coverage of the Norwegian military airspace. The Thales solution consists of a dual TACAN ground beacon 553 with antenna, remote control and monitoring systems. Used primarily by military aircraft pilots, the TCAN provides bearing and distance information to ease navigation, particularly in harsh weather conditions. The project began in 2015 and is expected to conclude by 2020.The Norwegian Defence Material Agency has awarded a contract to Thales for the deployment of 14 Tactical Air Navigation Aids (TACAN) to modernise and replace the country’s existing systems. The upgrade initiative falls under the Navigational Aids Family of System modernization project managed by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, out of Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. “However, without the outstanding and timely support from agencies across Team Offutt to include the 55th Communications Squadron, 55th Logistics Readiness Squadron and especially the 55th Civil Engineer Squadron, the project’s completion would not have been possible.” “Without prior project management experience, they worked very hard to comply with established deadlines for a successful project completion,” Murillo-Alvarez said. Brian Magee of the 55th OSS’ air traffic control and landing systems team. The bulk of the upgrade effort was led by Tech. “An estimated 400 manpower positions will be superseded by the modernized system Air Force wide.” “Monetary savings is behind the regional maintenance center concept and provides the Air Force a return on investment with the modernization,” Murillo-Alvarez said. In addition to reducing the maintenance requirements for the 55th OSS, the new system will enable the regional maintenance center to perform flight checks remotely as well. “The new TACAN will be remotely monitored and about 90 percent maintained by the regional maintenance center out of Oklahoma City,” she said. Previously, Murillo-Alvarez’s section had been responsible for providing support and maintenance to the legacy system, but the new TACAN changes that. “The upgrade will definitely help with day-to-day operations due to increased reliability.” Nancy Murillo-Alvarez, 55th Operations Support Squadron NCO in-charge of air traffic control and landing systems. “The legacy system had become outdated and met the end of its service life due to a strained supply chain and outdated electronics,” said Master Sgt. It has a dual transmitter intersystem that the old TACAN did not provide and can provide 100 percent uptime rate, reducing overall downtime while enhancing safe flight operations. The new system will increase reliability, and overall cost savings on maintenance, supportability and repair compared to the old system installed in 1994. The TACAN is a beacon for aircraft within 200 nautical miles of the system providing aircrew the proper bearing and distance to assist them for their return flight to base. The Tactical Air Navigation System, or TACAN, located on the flightline here, was replaced and upgraded as part of an Air Force wide $43M modernization project Nov.
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