KODIAK, Alaska — As a result of technological advancements during the last 20 years and the emergence of the U.S. Global Positioning System, Alaska-based Long Range Aids to Navigation stations (Loran-C) will cease broadcasting a signal this year.
Coast Guard Loran Station Attu as seen from the top of the antenna. The Loran Station is home to 20 Coast Guardsmen for a year at a time each. The station is located on Attu Island at the end of the Aleutian Island Chain. They are the only inhabitants of the island. (Official Coast Guard photo courtesy of Loran Station Attu)
“Coast Guard men and women, working largely with antiquated systems and little fanfare, have stood a steadfast watch for more than 50 years in some of America’s most isolated regions,” said Admiral Christopher Colvin, Commander, 17th Coast Guard District, “I am proud of their professionalism and hard work.”
Loran-C is no longer required by the armed forces, the transportation sector or the nation’s security interests, and is used by only a small segment of the population. Users of Loran-C are strongly encouraged to make the transition to GPS navigation and plotting systems immediately.
The decision to terminate transmission of the Loran-C signal reflects the president’s pledge to eliminate unnecessary federal programs. The president did not seek funding for the Loran-C system in fiscal year 2010. Termination was also supported through the enactment of the 2010 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill.
The Loran-C system was not established as, nor was it intended to be, a viable systemic backup for GPS. If a single, domestic national system to back up GPS is identified as being necessary, the Department of Homeland Security will complete an analysis of potential backups to GPS. The continued active operation of Loran-C is not necessary to advance this evaluation.
Loran-C stations in Alaska include Attu, Shoal Cove in Ketchikan, Tok, Narrow Cape in Kodiak, Port Clarence and St. Paul Island.
