Air Force pilots, commanders, and air controllers representing Continental US NORAD regions met at a major general aviation fly-in at Lakeland, Fla., to discuss ramifications of post-9/11 changes to air defense identification zones and temporary flight restrictions. NORAD is trying to institute more effective and efficient ADIZs and TFRs for both pilots and those monitoring them, according to Col. Randy Morris, the air component coordination element director for homeland security. He added, “As a general aviation pilot, I recognize the importance to strive for a proper balance of need and necessity in these critical areas.”
The Air Force has tapped sites in Oregon to build its first two new Over-the-Horizon Radars, capable of detecting inbound missile threats from up to 4,000 nautical miles away. The service is hoping to start construction by the end of 2028.