What technology does ATCRBS utilize for tracking?

ATCRBS, which stands for Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System, utilizes radar and transponders for tracking aircraft. This system works by using ground-based radar to detect the position and movement of an aircraft. When an aircraft equipped with a transponder receives a radar signal, it responds by sending back a signal that contains information about its identity and altitude. This process allows air traffic controllers to monitor aircraft in real time, enhancing safety and efficiency in airspace management.

The integration of radar technology with transponders is vital because radar alone can only provide positional data, while transponders enhance this data with specific identification and altitude information, thus improving situational awareness in air traffic control operations.