In radar systems, ILS (Instrument Landing System) isn't actually a type of radar itself, but

rather a separate landing navigation system that utilizes radio signals alongside radar data to
guide aircraft during approach and landing, particularly in low visibility conditions. Here's a brief
explanation:

What is ILS?

ILS is a precision approach system that provides both lateral (side-to-side) and vertical
(up-down) guidance to aircraft landing on a runway. It consists of three components:

● Localizer: This transmits two directional radio beams, one on each side of the runway
centerline. By comparing the strength of these signals, the aircraft determines its
horizontal position relative to the runway.
● Glideslope: This transmits a radio beam angled 3° downward from the runway threshold.
By measuring the strength of this signal, the aircraft determines its vertical position and
maintains the correct descent angle.
● Marker Beacons: These emit radio signals at specific points along the approach path,
providing the pilot with auditory indications of their progress and proximity to the runway.

ILS with Radar:

While not directly part of the radar system, ILS often works in conjunction with radar in air traffic
control and landing operations. Radar provides air traffic controllers with an overall picture of
aircraft movements and positions around the airport, while ILS guides individual aircraft
precisely onto the runway centerline and glideslope during landing. This combination ensures
safe and efficient landing even in poor visibility conditions like fog or low clouds.

Benefits of ILS:

● Enables safe landing in low visibility conditions.

● Provides highly accurate lateral and vertical guidance.
● Reduces pilot workload during critical landing phase.
● Improves airport landing capacity and efficiency.

Limitations of ILS:

● Requires complex ground equipment and maintenance.

● Only provides guidance for a single approach path per runway.
● Susceptible to interference from other radio sources.

Conclusion:

ILS is a crucial navigation system for safe and precise landings in poor weather conditions.
While not directly a radar technology, it integrates seamlessly with radar data to enhance air
traffic control and landing operations.

I hope this explanation, along with the images, provides a good understanding of ILS and its
role in conjunction with radar systems. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!