Doppler Installation Enhances Weather Intelligence at Andersen Air Force Base

Andersen Air Force Base in Guam has recently benefited from the installation of a portable Doppler radar system, thanks to a team of weather systems maintainers from the 2nd Combat Weather Systems Squadron (2 CWSS). The system was installed over a period of nine days, from July 5-15, and is now providing real-time meteorological observations for the base and surrounding community.

The 2 CWSS is responsible for training, installing, maintaining, and disseminating data for Portable Doppler Radar Systems that support Air Force operations. According to Master Sgt. Andrew Bethea, Training Flight chief from the 2 CWSS, his team of two was instrumental in overcoming challenges involved in transporting the system to Guam and integrating it into the base's telecommunications systems.

The need for a portable Doppler radar system became apparent after the island's only Doppler system, Next Generation Weather Radar, broke down early in 2021. The 36th Operational Support Squadron at Andersen AFB requested the installation of a temporary solution to address the intelligence gap, and the 2 CWSS team was happy to oblige.

The portable Doppler radar system provides critical weather intelligence to forecasters by determining precipitation types and intensity. This information is essential for pinpoint weather forecasts, which are crucial for resource protection and flying operations at Andersen AFB. The base is situated in a region prone to typhoons, with 28 named tropical weather systems observed in the Pacific Ocean in 2020 alone.

According to Lt. Jonathan Vogel, commander of the 36th Operations Support Squadron, 'The portable Doppler radar system installed by the team from 2 CWSS in conjunction with our own radar, airfield, and weather systems Airmen provides organic real-time meteorological observations for Andersen AFB and the surrounding community.'

This agile capability is vital to daily operations and safety at Andersen AFB, especially during typhoon season. The base's ability to provide accurate and timely weather forecasts allows for more effective planning and decision-making, ultimately enhancing overall readiness and effectiveness.

In conclusion, the installation of a portable Doppler radar system at Andersen Air Force Base is a significant enhancement to the base's weather intelligence capabilities, providing critical support to daily operations and safety. The 2 CWSS team's expertise in installing and maintaining this system has ensured that the base can continue to operate safely and effectively, even during periods of unpredictable weather.

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