Advancing Expeditionary Warfare: The Marine Corps’ Vision for Precision Landing Systems

Introduction to EPALC

In the evolving landscape of military operations, the U.S. Marine Corps is seeking to enhance its operational capabilities through the development of the Expeditionary Precision Approach Landing Capability (EPALC). This initiative aims to ensure that Marine aircraft can effectively touch down on functional airstrips within a mere 90 minutes after the arrival of essential support equipment, facilitated by transport aircraft such as the MV-22 Osprey or CH-53 King Stallion.

Industry Engagement for Innovative Solutions

Recently, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) issued a request for information (RFI), inviting industry partners to propose advanced flight line navigation systems that would enable both manned and unmanned aircraft to land under diverse weather conditions. The objective is to equip expeditionary units with the ability to operate in environments characterized by severe visibility restrictions.

Key Requirements for Navigation Systems

The solicitation outlines critical specifications that include:

• Deployment Compatibility: Equipment must fit within the dimensions of an MV-22, CH-53, or C-130 transport aircraft.
• Setup Time: A four-person crew should complete assembly within 90 minutes.
• Precision Guidance: The system needs to provide accurate approach instructions in adverse weather with visibility limited to half a mile.
• Operational Range: A minimum effective range of 20 nautical miles is mandated.
• Durability Standards: Equipment must withstand temperatures between -20 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit and function effectively in high humidity (up to 85%).

Strategic Context: Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations

The EPALC initiative is closely aligned with the Marine Corps’ operational strategy, known as Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO). This concept promotes the deployment of self-sufficient, small units capable of dispersed operations within coastal regions, enabling rapid responsiveness in contested environments.

EABO facilitates:

• Mobile Operations: Forces can operate from transient, austere sites, enhancing maneuverability.
• Sea Denial and Fleet Sustainment: This strategy supports both naval resource protection and logistical support in a maritime context.

Operational Considerations for Security

Given the necessity for operations in contested spaces, the navigation system’s design must incorporate robust security features such as:

• Friend-or-Foe Identification: To ensure accurate targeting and minimize friendly fire incidents.
• Jamming and Spoofing Resistance: To maintain operational integrity against enemy electronic warfare tactics.
• Low-Observable Capabilities: Systems must be able to operate with minimal electronic and physical signatures to evade detection.

Technological Parallels: The Joint Precision Approach and Landing System

The aspirations for EPALC draw inspiration from the success of the ship-based Joint Precision Approach and Landing System (JPALS), which has redefined how aircraft land on naval vessels. Employing GPS-based precision, JPALS has notably alleviated challenges associated with night landings and low-visibility conditions.

• Collins Aerospace: Acknowledged for producing both JPALS and the corresponding land-based variant (eJPALS), Collins Aerospace has demonstrated the technology’s capacity for rapid deployment and effective integration within Marine Corps operations.

Synergy Between Systems

The eJPALS operates in concert with the JPALS airborne software, ensuring pilots are equipped with familiar instrumentation across different operational platforms. The potential for eJPALS to include air traffic control surveillance capabilities further strengthens its viability for broader use.

Testing and Future Integration

The U.S. Marine Corps has already engaged in preliminary evaluations of eJPALS. A notable demonstration occurred in 2021 at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, where over 50 landings were conducted with this system, including approaches by the F-35B Joint Strike Fighters. This testing phase was instrumental in assessing functional integration and preparing for budgetary considerations concerning future capabilities.

Conclusion: Looking Ahead

The RFI marks a significant step towards the Marine Corps’ investment in EPALC technology. By soliciting input from commercial stakeholders, NAVAIR aims to identify viable solutions that meet its stringent operational requirements. Interested companies have until January 16 to submit their proposals, potentially reshaping the landscape of expeditionary aviation.

As the Marine Corps continues to refine its operational capabilities, EPALC represents a critical advancement in ensuring that forces can maintain a tactical edge in dynamic and often hostile environments. The emphasis on deploying rapid, reliable, and resilient systems underscores the Corps’ commitment to adaptability in the face of ever-evolving military challenges.