Global Area Reference System (GARS)

The Global Area Reference System (GARS) is a worldwide grid-based reference system used by military forces and emergency services to rapidly and clearly define geographic locations. Originally developed by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), GARS provides a standard for deconfliction, coordination, and communication across multiple services and agencies. It is particularly useful in search and rescue (SAR) missions, disaster relief, and battle-space management.

Transition to GARS in CAP Operations

CAP is aligning its operations with GARS following the U.S. adoption of the system as part of updated International Aviation and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR) protocols. This system is replacing older reference grids such as the Common Geographic Reference System (CGRS). The change to GARS is expected to primarily affect mission base staff, who will need to convert latitude and longitude or other grid systems into GARS for mission planning and coordination.

Field personnel, including ground teams and aircrews, will continue using traditional latitude and longitude systems found in CAP GPS equipment. As GARS becomes fully implemented, training materials will be made available to ensure all CAP members can adapt to the new system.

How GARS Works

GARS divides the world into 30-minute by 30-minute cells, each approximately 900 square nautical miles at the equator, with the size diminishing toward the poles. These cells are further subdivided into:

15-minute by 15-minute quadrants, which provide greater specificity.
5-minute by 5-minute areas within each quadrant, allowing for detailed location reference, with each area represented by a simple alphanumeric code.

This system allows for faster communication of geographic locations, reducing errors in relaying information during high-stakes missions such as SAR and disaster relief.

Advantages of GARS

Global Consistency: GARS provides a single, standard reference system for military and civil operations worldwide.
Simplified Communication: The use of concise alphanumeric strings simplifies the transmission of location data, avoiding long series of latitude and longitude coordinates.
Interagency Coordination: GARS enables seamless coordination between CAP and federal, state, and local agencies, as well as international partners during joint operations.
Improved Mission Efficiency: The ability to rapidly identify locations of interest or areas of operation enhances the speed and accuracy of decision-making during critical missions.

Training and Resources

CAP members should expect training on GARS as part of their emergency services and mission planning education. This transition will primarily affect mission planners, but resources and guidance will be provided to ensure all personnel are proficient in using the system. GARS data files and conversion tools are available for download, and CAP National Headquarters will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

For access to training materials and further details on GARS, please refer to the Related Documents and Related Links sections.