The Federal Aviation Administration is asking for comments on a draft environmental assessment for a proposed long‑range radar facility at Mount Petosukara on Saipan. The project aims to close a long‑recognized gap in north‑facing radar coverage in the CNMI.
Developed with the U.S. Air Force, the plan calls for installing a new Air Route Surveillance Radar at the former Pacific Barrier III site in the Tangke area near As Matuis. The FAA says the facility would provide modern, reliable radar surveillance for the National Airspace System and support national defense operations.
The draft assessment evaluates environmental impacts of constructing and operating the radar within the previously developed PACBAR III footprint. The proposal includes a radar service building with an integrated radome and array, upgrades to about 1.6 miles of electrical infrastructure, and demolition of deteriorated structures. A mobile radar unit would maintain coverage during construction.
FAA officials said Mount Petosukara’s elevation and clear line of sight make it ideal for long‑range operations while minimizing impacts to surrounding forest areas.
The public comment period runs until Sept. 15. Written comments may be submitted to Jonathan Salter, Special Infrastructure Projects, Program Manager, NAS Defense Programs, at jonathan.salter@faa.gov. Copies of the draft are available online under FAA Air Traffic Facilities “Notices” and at the Joeten Kiyu Public Library.
The CNMI Historic Preservation Office has concurred with the FAA’s finding of no adverse effect on historic properties. Archaeological monitoring will be required during all ground‑disturbing work.
