Leonardo Germany has been awarded a $622,260 contract to upgrade Cayman’s Kearney Gomez Doppler Radar, with work scheduled to start immediately.
The contract forms part of a wider effort from the Cayman Islands National Weather Service to upgrade its capabilities.
The German-based firm, which manufactured and installed the original radar at High Rock, East End, has worked with the weather service on the Doppler’s recent repairs which had become necessary following repeated breakdowns.
The National Weather Service, in a statement on the planned upgrade, said as part of in its “ongoing commitment to safeguard public safety and enhance disaster management capabilities”, it awarded the upgrade contract to the German firm.
“Leonardo Germany provides leading-edge technology products, services and solutions in the field of Meteorology. This decision follows a careful analysis and selection process, reaffirming the Government’s strategic initiative to maintain the highest standards in meteorological services and environmental monitoring,” the government statement said.
Leonardo Germany was selected for “their proven expertise and innovative technology solutions,” the statement said, adding that the partnership ensures that the upgrade aligns with international meteorological standards and leverages the latest advancements in radar technology.
The Doppler radar, which has a lifespan of 15 years, first became operational in 2013. The system was built by Leonardo and funded through a grant provided by the European Union in 2012.
The contract cost was not provided in the media statement, however the Compass obtained that figure through an announcement on government’s public procurement portal Bonfire.
Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly, who has responsibility for the weather service, said government is committed to “this vital project as part of its broader strategy to modernize infrastructure and ensure the safety and well-being of all its residents”.
The Kearney Gomez Doppler Radar is nearing the end of its operational lifespan, the statement added.
The Doppler radar, which has a lifespan of 15 years, first became operational in 2013.
“With increasing risks of system failures that could compromise its effectiveness, an upgrade has become essential to continue providing precise and reliable weather data. The radar’s enhancement is critical not only for detecting rapid weather formations but also for supporting effective disaster management throughout the islands,” the statement said.
John Tibbetts, National Weather Service director general, said the upgrade will address the “aging infrastructure and obsolescence of critical components” which pose risks during severe weather events, particularly during hurricane season.
“The comprehensive upgrade is designed to extend the radar’s service life by an additional 12 years, enhancing its reliability and performance,” he added.
The upgrade is scheduled to start immediately, with completion targeted for the end of 2025.
“To minimize disruption to radar operations, all major upgrade activities requiring system downtime are meticulously planned for execution outside of the hurricane season,” the statement added.
Last week, the National Weather Service had announced that the Kearney Gomez Doppler Weather Radar will be down for scheduled annual maintenance beginning 4 Dec., adding that once the radar is cleared to resume service the public will be informed.
The Compass was told that taking the radar offline was not connected to the planned upgrade project.
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I recollect reading some years ago that Owen Roberts Air Traffic control did not have radar facilities. If this is still the case, is consideration being given provide this, given the greatly increased air traffic at the airport.