Belize Finally Secures Primary Aviation Radar
After several years of waiting, Belize has finally updated its aviation surveillance system, making the country one of the most advanced in aircraft control within the region. Back in March 2023, the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Civil Aviation signed an eight-point-five-million U.S dollar agreement for the acquisition of a new aviation primary radar and for the upgrading of its air traffic control center and now. After nearly year, it’s finally here. According to the Government of Belize, the acquisition of this new technology will allow Belizean authorities to keep track of all aircraft before they head into Belize’s airspace, giving law enforcement sufficient time to intercept these planes with their cargo and occupants.
Nigel Carter
Nigel Carter, Director, Civil Aviation
“So the primary surveillance radar, in conjunction with the secondary surveillance radar, will allow for air traffic controllers to see all aircraft in our airspace. The secondary surveillance radar is limited to seeing aircraft that have transponders on. If the aircraft is flying without a transponder and possibly without radio communication, then our air traffic controllers would not be able to see that aircraft. With the Primary Surveillance Radar, they will be able to see aircraft that do not have any transponders and possibly no radios. It allows for them to make better decisions insofar as ensuring safety of aircraft navigating within our airspace. The Primary Surveillance Radar provides tremendous support to our national security. The information is sent to both air traffic control officers, as well as the Joint Intelligence Operations Center. The primary radar provides coverage for all of Belize’s airspace and in conjunction with other primary radars in the region, it creates a network of primary surveillance radars that is capable of providing alerts for any incoming aircraft. The radar system that you’re looking at behind me is manufactured by Indra Systems. The system is installed for two purposes. Firstly, for situational awareness for air traffic controllers and then the secondary is for national security. You’re looking at two antennae. The rectangular one on top is the secondary surveillance radar. The antenna at the bottom, which is concave in shape, is the primary surveillance radar antenna.”
Prime Minister John Briceño
Prime Minister John Briceño
“The modern primary radar will allow our security forces to better track illicit activities. When tied into doors belonging to our regional counterparts, it will allow us to see aircraft many miles beyond our borders. This primary radar is another symbol of our commitment to bring safety and security to Belize and the Belizean people.”
