Technology tested by RAF flypast over wind farms

The MOD is carrying out trials of a new technology designed to overcome interference on civil and military air traffic control radar.
Working with the DTI, the British Wind Energy Association (BWEA) with support from National Air Traffic Services (NATS) and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the MOD is testing two technologies from BAE Systems and Selex S.I. to see if they resolve problems posed by wind turbines.
An MOD mobile Watchman radar has been located in an area of multiple wind farms and both the RAF and an independently appointed safety team are conducting calibrated trial flights.
If the technology is deemed fit for purpose it will free up a significant number of potential locations for wind farm across the UK that could contribute to the Government’s renewable energy target if developed.
Under Secretary of State for Defence Tom Watson said:
“We must sustain essential military activity in the UK, whilst fully supporting the Government’s renewable energy policy. The rotating blades of wind turbines interfere with radar performance when the blades are in the line of sight of the radar, which is why we have to restrict their position. We hope that as a result of these trials, an increased number of wind farms can be built, without any risk to the Armed Forces ability to train and operate in the UK.”