Loran-C: Yesterday, today & tomorrow

The Department of Transportation decision in 1974 to implement Loran-C as the radionavigation system for the Coastal Confluence Zone has resulted in the introduction of the system in areas where it did not exist previously and planned reconfiguration of existing system networks in other areas. In view of the programmed phase out of the Loran-A system, users will be required to convert from Loran-A to Loran-C usage. For some users, like large merchant vessels, this conversion may not be voluntary. A brief historical review of the Loran-C system is presented which includes fundamental system concepts and characteristics. Current developments are examined, followed in turn by those which are expected or desired in the future. Time proven, the system is shown to be capable of serving not only the traditional marine navigator, but a host of other applications as well, both inland on the ground and in the air, in many areas of the world.