Air traffic radar limitations
The UK military is progressively modernising it’s air traffic service radar equipment. The new Topsky/Star NG system that is also used by several airports provides greater processing including reduced clutter, removal of ambiguity giving a constant picture that isn’t adjustable by controllers, and many other technical/ATC related benefits. Glider pilots should note that the new system’s filtering process significantly reduces the likelihood of a controller seeing a slow moving aircraft, e.g. a soaring glider. A recent RAF safety publication highlights to its aircrew that in their operations multiple mode S transponders that are in close proximity cause issues on controller screens and notes the need to turn off transponders during formation flying leaving the lead aircraft squawking, that ADS-B out is not displayed ‘as it is not assured for ATC use’, and that radar backed up by lookout remains necessary as ‘the naked eye is still one of the best sensors to avoid mid-air conflict’.
Our collision avoidance guidance is strongly recommended to all glider pilots and is supported by our guidance on lookout supported by technology, which has been recently updated regarding ADS-B.