We see this as a way to bring a burst of new technology into aviation instrumentation. This aircraft isn't as easy to poke holes in as the C-130. So the radar will need a new home. The plane will be cheaper to operate than many older aircraft, and parts will be readily available. What's more, it can be serviced at almost any airport.
Many questions remain to be answered, however.
ATD will be gathering information about these and other candidate models throughout next spring. In the same period, the community workshops will decide what structural modifications the chosen aircraft will require to house the necessary instrumentation. And Carlson intends to staff the effort largely by using an experienced U.S. Air Force procurement team and by redirecting existing NCAR and UCAR staff. ATD will hire only a new project manager and a few other support staff devoted to the procurement. We've been wanting this opportunity for years.