About Joint STARS

From a stand off position, Joint STARS detects, locates, classifies, tracks and targets potentially hostile ground movement in all weather. It operates around the clock, in constant communication through secure data links with Air Force command posts, Army mobile ground stations or centers of military analysis far from the point of conflict.

Joint STARS can determine direction, speed and patterns of activity of ground vehicles and helicopters, thereby showing intent as well as content. It can track the evolution of conditions across borders, within a country in turmoil, or around disputed national boundaries.

Inside the Air Force's E-8c aircraft or Army's ground stations, operators can observe moving or stationary ground targets on large multicolored monitors. The screens display a constant stream of processed data, represented by moving dot patterns or still grids on the screens. The processed information, displayed simultaneously on the airborne and ground-based operations consoles, can be viewed as a wide-area image or a detailed snapshot of a specific area.

This information resource allows the United States and its allies to effectively manage a crisis before a conflict begins; rapidly apply military assets to counter a provocation; or conduct a full war fighting scenario if required.

Throughout Desert Storm, Joint STARS provided air and ground commanders a real-time tactical view of the battlefield never before achieved in the history of warfare. During the massive Iraqi exodus from Kuwait City, Joint STARS detected, located, and targeted thousands of fleeing vehicles.