(U) A6CI ADI - Low Altitude Radio Kit (LARK) BBP (2025)(Final)_Redacted.pdf

UNCLASSIFIED

BULLET BACKGROUND PAPER

ON

LOW ALTITUDE RADIO KIT (LARK)

PURPOSE

The Low Altitude Radio Kit (LARK) provides a deployable, PSTN-based radio communication system enabling Air Defense Sectors and authorized users to communicate with low-altitude aircraft (0-1,500 feet). This capability addresses a critical command and control (C2) gap for intercepting targets operating below the effective range of standard air defense radio networks, supporting missions such as Presidential travel, National Special Security Events (NSSEs), and Human Space Flight.

BACKGROUND

- Following 9/11, the Joint Staff tasked CONR with homeland defense through the CJCS Operation Noble Eagle (ONE) Execute Order (EXORD). CONR/AFNORTH subsequently assumed responsibility for air defense coverage during National Special Security Events (NSSEs) and events involving the President/Vice President.

- Traditionally, fighter aircraft provided this coverage above 5,000 feet, benefiting from reliable radio communication. However, in recent years, US Coast Guard Rotary Wing Air Interceptors (RWAI) have become a cost-effective alternative, often operating below the effective range of existing air defense radio networks. This operational shift created a command and control (C2) gap for BCC crews during target interceptions.

- To address this gap, and under the direction of the Joint Forces Air Component Commander (JFACC), General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), the prime Air Defense Communication contractor, developed the LARK.

DISCUSSION

- Tasking Request: Tasking requests typically originate from the 601st Air Operations Center (AOC) Combat Plans Division but can also come directly from agencies such as the US Coast Guard (USCG) or US Secret Service (USSS).

- Needs Assessment: Combat Plans assesses the tasking request to determine the necessity of LARK deployment to support Presidential Travel, NSSEs, Human Space Flight, or other missions.

- Coordination: The 601st AOC, AFNORTH A3/A6, GDIT, and relevant external agencies (USCG, White House Communications Agency, USSS) coordinate LARK placement, circuit/power requirements, and other logistical details.

UNCLASSIFIED

- Formal Tasking: The A6 Air Defense Command and Control System (ADCS) Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) formally tasks GDIT with the ONE-funded LARK mission support.

- Post-Mission: GDIT retrieves, reconstitutes, and bench tests the LARK to ensure its readiness for future deployments.

LARK FLEET STATUS

- Permanent Installations: LARK systems are installed and operational at the following locations to support frequent Presidential travel:

-- Somerset Airport, NJ (Bedminster support)

-- Palm Beach International Airport, FL (Mar-a-Lago support)

-- Hagerstown Regional Airport, MD (Camp David support)

-- Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, FL (Human Space Flight support)

- Deployable Systems: Eight LARK systems are ready for rapid deployment to support:

-- Unplanned Presidential travel

-- National Special Security Events (NSSEs), such as the UN General Assembly (UNGA)

-- Temporary relocation of Aerospace Control Alert (ACA) sites or during runway repairs

-- Emergency/temporary radio access for Battle Control Centers (BCCs) at internal or external sites in case of communication cable cuts or other service disruptions

CONCLUSION

The LARK system has become an essential component of CONR/AFNORTH's air defense capabilities, effectively bridging the low-altitude C2 gap and ensuring reliable communication with aircraft operating below 1,500 feet. Its deployable nature allows for flexible support of various mission requirements, including Presidential travel, NSSEs, and other critical operations.

The established tasking and deployment process, involving coordination between multiple agencies, ensures efficient and effective utilization of the LARK fleet. Continued maintenance and readiness of these systems are vital for maintaining this critical low-altitude communication capability.