Wide Area Surveillance

The Wide Area Surveillance (WAS) program, as detailed in Program Element 0604445F, is an Air Force initiative focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of advanced sensor technologies to enhance airspace surveillance capabilities. The primary objective of the WAS program is to detect and track low, slow, and asymmetrical airborne threats using affordable and technologically advanced sensors. These sensors are designed to operate effectively in complex environments and contribute to the overall air picture for the Battle Control Systems-Fixed (BCS-F), which serves as the air surveillance system of record for the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM).

The WAS program consists of two main sensor systems: the Stateside Affordable Radar System (STARS) and Scorpion. Both systems are intended to provide complementary capabilities, with STARS focusing on affordable, high-performance radar coverage and Scorpion offering additional detection and tracking features. The integration of these sensor outputs into the BCS-F ensures that NORAD/NORTHCOM has a comprehensive and timely command and control (C2) air surveillance capability, which is critical for homeland defense and response to emerging aerial threats.

A significant focus of the current budget cycle is the STARS (S1) Block 2 Modernization. The goal of this effort is to complete the engineering, development, and testing required to upgrade the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to a full S1 Block 2 system. This modernization is intended to enhance the system's detection, tracking, and data integration capabilities, ensuring that it meets evolving operational requirements. The budget for the upcoming fiscal year is allocated to finalize these upgrades and conduct comprehensive testing of both the S1 Block 2 and Scorpion (S2) systems, which will inform the program's Full Operational Capability (FOC) decision.

The Scorpion (S2) system is also undergoing continued development and testing as part of the WAS program. The objectives for Scorpion include completing system design, integration, and pre-operational site support, as well as transitioning to contractor logistics support for sustained operations. The development and testing of Scorpion are coordinated to align with the STARS modernization timeline, ensuring both systems are fielded and integrated into the BCS-F in a synchronized manner.

The acquisition strategy for WAS employs a single-step approach to develop, produce, and field both sensor systems. The Air Force Program Executive Officer (PEO) for Electronic Systems oversees the program, with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) serving as the contracting authority. Contracts for both STARS and Scorpion were awarded on a Cost Plus Fixed-Fee (CPFF) basis to single developers, with Raytheon serving as the primary contractor for STARS. The strategy includes delivering five STARS and eighty-four Scorpion systems, totaling eighty-nine subsystems, to achieve full operational capability.

In addition to hardware and software development, the WAS program includes funding for test and evaluation activities, program management, and necessary civilian pay expenses. The 46th Test Squadron at Eglin AFB is responsible for test support, while AFLCMC provides program support and oversight. The program's funding profile reflects a planned decrease after the next fiscal year, corresponding to the completion of the S1 Block 2 development effort and transition to operational support and sustainment.