Beale upgrades aircraft landing system

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Robert M. Trujillo
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calf. --  Beale recently installed a new state-of-the-art Instrument Landing System which aids pilots while landing.

The upgrade was a part of an Air Force wide Instrument Landing System project to update aging systems.

"The new system will save the Air Force more than $342 million over a 15 year period," said Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Brown, 9th Communication Squadron section chief of Air Traffic Controls and Landing Systems.

The project was completed June 4 with support of 9th CS, 9th Civil Engineer Squadron, as well as members from the Air Force Flight Standards Agency.

Brown said the SELEX 2100 ILS provides a user- friendly, computer-based interface, integrates cutting- edge technical features, and combines ease of operation and maintenance with low installation, maintenance and logistics costs.

The system is comprised of two components, the localizer and the glideslope. The localizer transmits horizontal data to an aircraft on approach while the glideslope provides vertical data enabling the pilot to pinpoint the location of the runway while flying in inclement weather.

"It's a much needed upgrade, it replaces the 70s technology we've been using," Brown said.

Prior to the new system, Beale utilized an older version of the ILS which required heavy maintenance and costly repairs.

The ILS will also offer a 24-hour capability which can quickly identify emergency situations remotely.

Brown said that this remote feature will save countless man hours and streamline mission effectiveness.

"This ILS was designed for the 21st century, and it's an efficient and sustainable navigation system." Brown said. "It's mission capable, and it's what our flying community deserves."