Jamming is classified into two main categories: active and passive. Active jammers are
those that generate RADAR energy to produce interference. Passive jammers are those
that act as parasitic radiators, such as chaff. Chaff is composed of thin strips of
aluminum or other metal cut to a particular length. When released from aircraft at high
altitudes, the strips float down to the ground slowly. The resultant echoes cause large
areas of clutter.
Controlled jamming is conducted by the military and regulated by the FAA to preclude
interference with air traffic control RADAR. When prior notification has not been
received, controllers observing jamming operations should notify the appropriate
authority. Procedures are described in Air Traffic Control, FAA Order 7110.65.
Electronic RADAR Interference
Interference from other RADAR installations that operate on a similar frequency may be
encountered when two or more RADAR installations are in close proximity. When this
interference is encountered, nearby RADAR installations should be advised to check
the frequency calibration of their equipment.
Most RADAR installations have dual channels so that a standby channel is always
available. At times, the standby channel transmits a signal that produces interference. In
most cases, fine tuning the equipment by the technician decreases the amount of
interference.
SHIPBOARD EQUIPMENT
The equipment that you will use to perform your duties in CCA is, in some cases, very
different from what you find at a shore facility. Training in CCA on an operator s position
includes equipment operation and control procedures. As we discussed in previous
sections, your equipment is essential to your job. Providing safe control depends on
your ability to operate the equipment and to monitor it to make sure it operates correctly.
Most aircraft carriers have a variety of air-search RADARs on board.
Search RADARs
Some air-search RADARs are long range (up to 240 miles), and others are medium-
range (50 to 60 miles). Sometimes CDC and CCA share the use of shipboard RADARs:
CDC for air tracking, air intercept, and surface tracking and CCA for air traffic control.
Shipboard air search RADARs have IFF/SIF RADAR beacon systems that provide the
same capabilities as the ATCRBS/DAIR equipment used ashore. This equipment is
referred to as CATCC/DAIR.
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