Sector takes on Spiral 3 training, operational testing

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Chad Gerrard
  • NEADS/DOCC/Identification
ROME, N.Y. --  The NEADS Joint Interface Control Cell is currently implementing Spiral 3 updates to the Battle Control System-Fixed to include providing training with a focus on the Pocket-J data link capabilities in reference to Spiral 3.

According to JICC, training for Spiral 3 was Jan. 5-9. Operational testing is scheduled for Jan. 26-30.

After operational testing, the updates will be operationally in place for use at the Sector in April, said Capt. Chris Miller, NEADS JICC Officer.

The Pocket-J's are ground stations that allow the Continental U.S. NORAD Region, or CONR, and the Air Force's two Air Defense Sectors to directly communicate over data-links to fighter, command and control, and other data link equipped aircraft. This allows pilots to get a visual representation of where a track of interest, commonly referred to as a TOI, is rather than relying solely on voice communication to locate errant aircraft, according to First Air Force.

Pocket-J provides a faster and more complete air picture to the Combined Forces Air Component Commander and the pilot--better ensuring safety and accuracy for the air sovereignty mission.

Prior to Pocket-J, sector controllers would use voice-only communications to provide the information to the CFACC and pilot. This took extra time and increased the potential for human error, said Captain Miller.

"The new system will incorporate ETR [External Time Reference], which allows link players to transition from one Pocket-J site to another without dropping out of the link," Captain Miller explained. "It will allow remote control of satellite radio and upgrade the connection that will greatly increase the reliability and control of the radio. It also allows us to expand into WADS [Western Air Defense Sector] Spiral 3 Remote Elements from our Fixed Element."

Captain Miller also stated that, "Pocket-J allows us to remotely control data links at sites with a Remote Element installed. We have a Fixed Element installed at NEADS in the JICC which allows us to remotely control the Remote Element."

This technology was first fielded June 2007, and currently we have four Spiral 2 Remote Elements fielded and 1 Spiral 3 Remote element fielded, concluded Captain Miller.