Combat Training Ranges

The Combat Training Ranges program, managed by the Air Force, focuses on enhancing air combat and electronic warfare training capabilities. This is achieved through the procurement of advanced electronic telecommunications and instrumentation equipment. The initiative supports training ranges worldwide to meet air combat and electronic warfare requirements. It also addresses issues related to diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages by conducting studies and implementing supplier parts replacement activities.

A significant component of this program is the Pacific Multi-domain Training and Experimentation Capability (PMTEC) initiative. This effort aims to improve infrastructure and facilities near Guam and along the Second Island Chain. The goal is to establish a live air-to-air training range that supports joint interoperability for maritime strike, war-at-sea, high-end training, and live-virtual-constructive (LVC) requirements. The initiative seeks to generate joint readiness, test emerging capabilities, and drive theater-appropriate requirements in a fully instrumented training area.

The Advanced Radar Threat System Variant 1 (ARTS-V1) is another important aspect of the Combat Training Ranges program. It involves procuring long-range strategic Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) threat systems for Department of Defense training ranges. This aims to enhance aircrew training and tactics development by providing realistic threat replication that tests 5th Generation aircraft capabilities. The program also includes procuring services for acquisition, site activation, and implementation of ground systems.

Additionally, the P6 Combat Training Systems (P6CTS) are designed to address critical training capability gaps by enabling comprehensive air combat training environments. This system includes upgrades such as a trusted operating system, multiple level security architecture, Type 1 encryption of over-air data, and increased processing capability. The P6CTS investment supports both Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground combat training environments while providing a growth path for blended training capabilities.