Air Traffic Control, Approach, and Landing System (ATCALS)

The Air Traffic Control, Approach, and Landing System (ATCALS) program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0305114F, is a critical Air Force initiative under the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) appropriation. The primary goal of ATCALS is to support the Air Force's worldwide flying mission by funding the research, development, and management of both fielded and emerging air traffic control (ATC) communications, surveillance, automation, positioning, and precision approach and landing systems. The program is designed to modernize airfield operations, enhance resilience and safety, and support Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concepts. This ensures that air operations remain efficient and secure in both peacetime and contested environments.

Air Traffic Control (ATC) Future Technology (AFT) is a multi-project portfolio within ATCALS, focused on identifying and closing capability gaps in aircraft launch and recovery for both fixed and expeditionary operations. AFT's objectives include developing a bridging strategy, conducting capability-based assessments, and creating roadmaps for future ATC technologies. Key projects in FY26 include the Small Footprint Precision Approach and Landing Capability (SF-PALC), which aims to deliver lightweight, rapidly deployable instrument landing systems suitable for ACE environments. This involves the development and evaluation of the Lightweight Deployable Instrument Landing System (LD-ILS) and a Mode-5 capable Tactical Transponder Landing System (TTLS).

Additionally, the Flight Inspection Drone project seeks to reduce the need for traditional flight inspections, thereby saving costs and reducing operational risk. The Tactical ATC Command and Control Operating System (TACOS) automates sensor integration and enhances interoperability with host nations and other agencies.

Man-Portable Tactical Navigation Electronically Scanned Antenna (MP-TACAN ESA) is another significant line item under ATCALS. The goal of this project is to replace the legacy MP-TACAN mechanical rotating antenna with a modern electronically scanned antenna. This upgrade is expected to improve system reliability, reduce weight, and extend battery life, making the system more suitable for rapidly deployable operations. The MP-TACAN system provides critical point-to-point navigation and instrument flight approaches, especially in adverse weather and GPS-denied environments. The program supports the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and National Defense Strategy by enabling a scalable, adaptive family of systems for both Active Duty and Air National Guard units.

Multi-Function Tactical Radar System (MTRS) is a new, stand-alone program that evolved from the AFT portfolio and is focused on developing a multi-function ATC surveillance sensor. The MTRS is intended to support a range of missions, including ATC surveillance, Battle Management Command and Control (BMC2), precision approach, air defense, force protection, and weather processing. MTRS will replace aging legacy systems such as the AN/TPN-19 and MPN-14K, which are scheduled for decommissioning. The FY26 objectives include awarding a prototype development contract, managing prototype development, and beginning integration of the MTRS sensor with the Mobile Air Traffic System (MATS) software. The system is designed to lower the total operational footprint and lifecycle costs, while leveraging advanced technologies like adaptive digital beamforming and AI/ML-enabled tracking.

The Acquisition Strategy for ATCALS is structured as a basket approach, encompassing multiple programs at various stages of development and acquisition. The strategy emphasizes the use of full and open competition, Other Transaction Authority (OTA), Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR), and Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADA) to foster innovation and cost efficiency. Contracting efforts are managed primarily by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) at Hanscom AFB, MA, and Tinker AFB, OK, with coordination from the Air Force Flight Standards Agency (AFFSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

In addition to technical development, ATCALS funds are allocated for operational test and evaluation, program support costs, and management services to ensure successful integration and fielding of new capabilities. The program also aligns with executive branch policies on government efficiency, as evidenced by reductions in advisory and assistance services to promote cost savings. Congressional adds in FY24 included funding for the Mobile Air Traffic Surveillance System and Infill Radar Windfarm Coverage, further supporting the modernization and resilience of Air Force ATC infrastructure.