The government of Antigua and Barbuda is engaged in diplomatic efforts to obtain operational clearance from Trinidad and Tobago for a sophisticated radar system that has remained inactive despite a $10 million investment. Prime Minister Gaston Browne disclosed during a national interview that while the physical infrastructure is fully established locally, formal authorization from Trinidad’s air traffic control authority remains the sole impediment to activation.
Browne expressed frustration over the prolonged delay, noting that despite consistent diplomatic follow-ups over two to three years, the matter continues to be deferred without substantive response. The radar system, designed to operate at lower altitude levels, represents a critical enhancement to the nation’s aviation safety and oversight capabilities.
The Prime Minister revealed that Antigua and Barbuda has proactively trained specialized air traffic control personnel to operate the system. However, he cautioned that further delays could necessitate costly retraining programs, as current certifications may expire without practical application. “It’s very expensive to send them to Europe for training,” Browne emphasized, highlighting the financial implications of continued inaction.
During recent bilateral discussions with Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Browne formally appealed for direct intervention to resolve the authorization impasse. He asserted there exists “no legal or moral reason” for the prolonged delay in granting operational approval.
The activation of this radar infrastructure is considered pivotal for strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s national security framework and modernizing its aviation monitoring capabilities throughout the region’s airspace.