January 31, 2001🇺🇸Program

Radar Evidence

Marysville, CA: SSPARS radar system operational

On January 31, 2001, the US Air Force's Solid State Phased Array Radar System became fully operational at five global sites, including Beale AFB near Marysville, California. These radars detect ICBMs and cruise missiles aimed at the US.

Date

January 31, 2001

Location

Marysville, California🇺🇸

Type

Program

Country

🇺🇸 United States

Map

Background

Event Overview On 31 January 2001, the Solid State Phased Array Radar System (SSPARS) of the United States Air Force achieved full operational status across five key installations worldwide. This milestone marked the completion of upgrades replacing older systems like the RCA 474L Ballistic Missile Early Warning System, enhancing missile detection capabilities.

Locations and Technology Sites included Beale Air Force Base near Marysville, California (AN/FPS-123 PAVE PAWS), Cape Cod Air Force Station in Massachusetts, Clear Air Force Station in Alaska (AN/FPS-120, later upgraded), RAF Fylingdales in North Yorkshire, England, and Thule Air Base in Greenland. These solid-state phased-array radars operate in UHF frequencies, offering 120-degree coverage per face and detection ranges up to 3,000 miles, enabling rapid beam steering for tracking multiple targets simultaneously.

Purpose and Significance Primarily designed for early warning against sea-launched ballistic missiles and ICBMs targeting the US, SSPARS supports space surveillance and integrates with missile defense systems. No specific witnesses or UAP encounters noted, but its advanced radar tech is relevant for military monitoring contexts in UFO timelines. The system's activation unified global missile shields, with later upgrades like UEWR extending service life.