Keynote: Implementation of an end to end Radar Network and Doppler Services Upgrade Project (RNDSUP)

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology commenced a major overhaul of its radar network in 2002. It included the installation of 5 major Doppler radars and 15 conventional radars. This paper will describe the process of an end to end process of radar type selection in a fit for purpose approach. The network described will include radars from one degree to two degree beamwidth and S band and C band frequencies. In addition, a full suite of technical applications is being developed within the Bureau's research arm and a range of services applications developed in consultation with users. The benefit of the first installations are already being reaped through improved tropical cyclone detection and use in severe storm development. Networks of calibration rain gauges are being incorporated in the major radars in critical catchment areas. The paper will describe the development of RNDSUP from beginning to completion in 2008.