ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Airborne Early Warning and Control

Airborne early warning and control, or AWACS for short, is like a big flying radar station. It flies high up in the sky and scans the area around it with special radar equipment that can detect things like planes, ships, and even missiles from far away.

The people on board the AWACS can see all of the information that the radar is picking up on big screens and maps. They use this information to keep track of what's going on in the area and to help other planes and ships to stay safe.

Think of it like playing a big game of hide and seek. The AWACS is the person who stands in the middle of the field and can see everyone else who is hiding. They help the seekers find the hiders so that nobody gets lost or hurt.

Overall, the AWACS is an important tool for keeping our skies and waters safe by helping us see what we can't see with our own eyes.
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