Meteorological measuring

The purpose of meteorological (MET) measuring is to provide the warfighter timely and accurate environmental conditions occurring throughout battlespace.  This MET information enables comprehensive situational awareness of the atmospheric conditions that will impact weapons system selections, tactics, and targeting solutions.

MET systems collect meteorological data from both on-scene sensors and via reachback to DoD Numerical Weather Centers.  On-scene sensors include upper air balloon soundings, local surface conditions, and satellites.  An on-scene Mesoscale MET Model assimilates the collected surface and upper air measurements and produces a data cube of environmental conditions throughout the battlefield.  Using this MET “nowcast” model, MET Messages, MET Warnings, and tactical decision aids can then be accurately produced from the Mesoscale MET Model.

Modern Systems use GPS navigation and other technologies to increase accuracy.  Computer systems calculate weapon and ammunition data needed for accurate shooting solutions.

Systems currently under development will provide continuous MET observations, satellite imagery, Doppler Radar, and Numerical Weather Products.  System size is being reduced while incorporating state-of-the-art technology.  The next generation of systems will be used by a wider array of military forces.