The US Navy has taken delivery of the final Joint Precision Approach and Landing System (JPALS) from Raytheon Intelligence & Space.

A software-based GPS navigation and precision landing system, the JPALS is used to guide aircraft when approaching carriers and amphibious assault ships.

It provides surveillance and over-the-air inertial alignment, even in adverse weather conditions and challenging mission environments.

According to Naval Air Traffic Management Systems program manager Kevin Watkins, the arrival of the last JPALS unit is a significant milestone for the US Navy as it undergoes “incredible efforts” to bring critical systems to warfighters.

“This team overcame many barriers over the past several years, successfully achieving the required outcome to deliver all of the capabilities needed, on time and affordably,” he explained.

Raytheon’s JPALS utilizes an anti-jam encrypted data link to establish secure and smooth communication between an aircraft and an array of GPS sensors aboard carriers.

It is designed to enhance operations in harsh environments, making it suitable for expeditionary operations.

All US Navy aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships are being equipped with the state-of-the-art landing system.

The JPALS will also be used to support inflight refueling operations for unmanned vehicles, including the Stingray, to extend the range of aircraft.