The goal of this research is to explore the forecast value that a

the high resolution limited area data assimilation system can add to the

value of a lower resolution global analysis and The data assimilation system

used here for both the global and limited area data assimilation is the Local

Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter. The global data assimilation is done with

the model component of the NCEP Global Forecast System, while the limited

area data assimilation is carried out with the Regional Spectral Model of

NCEP. The main motivation for choosing these models is their close

relationship. The NCEP RSM is high- resolution correction to the lower

resolution fields of the NCEP GFS, therefore global and regional analysis can

be prepared in a consistent manner.

The quality of the data assimilation systems is assessed for "perfect" model

scenario and also by verifying short term (12-48 hours) forecasts against

real observations and high resolution operational analyzes.