The mobile G/ATOR platform, which provides advanced air and ground surveillance, was brought to Okinawa as part of a wider command and control initiative. Its optimal operation depends on specific terrain, which the 623rd ACS was well-positioned to provide.
Air Force personnel initiated the integration to link the G/ATOR with their TOC-L system, which processes radar data into a synchronised air picture. This enhances situational awareness and expands real-time airspace monitoring across both branches.
“We wanted to take two branches of equipment together to integrate and potentially create an air defense system that can be better utilized and accessed on Okinawa, and support future joint deployments,” explained 1st Lt. Jack Langlais, officer in charge of command and control integration, 623rd ACS.
The connection allows radar data from the Marine Corps system to feed into the TOC-L, improving clarity and coordination in shared airspace operations. The integration supports both surveillance and agile decision-making in complex environments.
“This collaboration not only expands the possibilities of our systems, but also gives an opportunity to provide future capabilities,” said Lt. Col. Elias Yousefi, commander of the 623rd ACS.
The G/ATOR’s multi-mission flexibility combined with TOC-L’s ability to consolidate multiple sources of data supports enhanced coordination in joint operational contexts. Together, the systems improve the effectiveness of U.S. air defence readiness in dynamic conditions.
