DEFSEN001
Operate a radar system


Application

This unit describes the skills required to operate a radar system. It includes the requirement to configure the system, build and maintain the collection, and collate and analyse information to track existing contacts or identify new contacts. This activity could continue for a prolonged period, requiring the operator to hand over effectively to another operator.

This unit was developed for Sensor Operators working within Defence but is applicable to any individual in this field of work.

The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.

Those undertaking this unit would work as part of a team, under supervision, while performing routine tasks in a broad range of contexts and environments. They use discretion and judgement and take responsibility for the quality of their output.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Configure radar system

1.1

Confirm serviceability of radar system, recognise and report any fault

1.2

Optimise radar display for operator use

1.3

Optimise system in line with the environmental conditions

1.4

Establish internal and external communications

2

Compile and maintain an electronic picture

2.1

Identify and discriminate radar contacts by collecting, collating and analysing information

2.2

Use radar identification friend or foe (IFF) and other available sensors/sources to collect information

2.3

Report, display and disseminate contact details to stakeholders

2.4

Respond to threats

2.5

Report problems or issues beyond own capability to supervisor

3

Finalise operations

3.1

Cease radar system operation or transfer to new operator as directed by supervisor

3.2

Secure and stow system

3.3

Secure and stow documentation

3.4

Report to supervisor on completion

Evidence of Performance

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria on at least one occasion and includes:

conducting daily system operability tests (DSOTs)

detecting contacts via electronic means

optimising operations room equipment

using correct voice procedures

using identification procedures

identifying, tracking and reporting contacts over a minimum of one hour

completing a minimum eight hours of radar systems operations using a manual or automated system

working within one’s delegated authority


Evidence of Knowledge

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and include knowledge of:

basic principles and characteristics of radar

cryptographic materials

environmental prediction system

external/internal communication techniques and voice procedures

tactical data systems


Assessment Conditions

Assessors must hold credentials specified within the Standards for Registered Training Organisations current at the time of assessment.

Assessment must satisfy the Principles of Assessment and Rules of Evidence and all regulatory requirements included within the Standards for Registered Training Organisations current at the time of assessment.

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.

Assessment must occur in workplace operational situations. Where this is not appropriate, assessment must occur in simulated workplace operational situations that reflect workplace conditions.

Resources for assessment must include access to:

a range of relevant exercises, case studies and/or simulations

relevant materials, tools, equipment and personal protective equipment currently used in industry

applicable documentation, including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals

acceptable means of simulation assessment.


Foundation Skills

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.


Range Statement

Range is restricted to essential operating conditions and any other variables essential to the work environment.

Non-essential conditions may be found in the Companion Volume Implementation Guide.


Sectors

Not applicable.


Competency Field

Sensor Operations