Application
This unit covers the competency required to provide support to the compilation of a tactical picture. It includes operating a sensor display to display and allow interpretation of tactical information. It also includes monitoring the sensor display for irregularities and taking steps to return the sensor display to optimal performance.
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. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Detect and track contacts using sensors | 1.1 Detect contacts by monitoring sensor display. 1.2 Analyse sensor returns to recognise valid contacts. 1.3 Track contacts. 1.4 Alert shift supervisor and other sensor operators of the contact by transmitting initial contact report. 1.5 Monitor tracking of contacts to ensure the validity of the track. 1.6 Perform manual tracking of contacts in the event of loss of automatic tracking of critical contacts. |
2. Recognise contact | 2.1 Classify contacts. 2.2 Assign identity of contacts to enable quick reference and identification by other sensor operators. 2.3 Transmit supplementary contact reports. 2.4 Recognise information from other sources and reclassify contact designated as ambiguous as required. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
analysing and validating tactical information
receiving and interpreting instructions
interpreting sensor returns
operating sensor display settings
performing manual tracking
recognising contacts and applying tracking
reporting accurate information based on recognised contacts and tracks
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
air, surface and sub-surface contacts
criteria for classifying contacts
IFF system operation settings
requirements for a valid contact
requirements of a tactical display
theory of radar
theory of sonar
Assessment Conditions
Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
ACSF levels indicative of performance:
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.
Competency Field
Sensor Operations