AN/MPN-14K (Deployable Ground Control Approach RAPCON)
The AN/MPN-14K Landing Control Central (Radar Set) can be configured as a complete Radar Approach Control (RAPCON) or Ground Controlled Approach (GCA) facility. The radar unit is used by air traffic controllers to identify, sequence, and separate participating aircraft; provide final approach guidance, guidance through air defense corridors
and zones, and coordinate ID and intent with local air defense units at assigned airports / air bases / bare bases. These services can be provided in all types of weather.
The radar unit is capable of identifying aircraft using secondary radar up to a 200 NM radius and primary radar coverage to 60 NM. The PAR provides both azimuth and elevation information from 15 NM to touchdown. Both the PAR and ASR can be used as final approach aids. The unit has three ASR display indicators and one PAR indicator located in the operations shelter, and one each ASR and PAR indicator located in the maintenance shelter. Complete operations are conducted from the operations trailer. The system is limited to a single runway but
has the capability of providing opposite direction runway operations with the aid of a transportable turntable.
Ten maintenance personnel and six controllers are needed to install the AN/ MPN-14K within 26 hours. The unit requires flight inspection to become operational.
The Air National Guard (ANG) has been assigned 60% of the air traffic control wartime mission by the Air Force and the MPN series air traffic control radar is unique to the ANG and not carried in the Air Force inventory. The ANG unique equipment must be funded outside of the Air Force depot system of modernization. The ANG has a requirement for MPN-14 systems upgrades to include improvements to communications switching system, shelters/undercarriage, flat panel LCD scopes and fiber optic cabling systems. Additionally, a new generation of highly mobile, rapidly deployable radar system must be brought on line for use by both the active and reserve components.
Sources and Resources
http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/equip/an-mpn-14.htm
Maintained by Robert Sherman
Originally created by John Pike
Updated Saturday, January 09, 1999 10:27:01 AM