additional low-level split-cut scans. For the first testing, which commenced on June 26, 2013, SAILSx2 (2 supplemental low-level soundings) was executed for approximately hours, and during the testing a radar technician observed the behavior of the pedestal/antenna assembly. No excessive wear was noted to the assembly of the KOUN radar in Norman, Oklahoma. Two days later, June 28, 2013, SAILSx3 (3 supplemental low-level soundings) was executed, also within the KOUN RPG. During this -hour test of SAILSx3, a ROC radar hardware engineer accompanied the ROC electronics maintenance technician to observe the antenna/pedestal assembly. Again, no excessive wear was noted. MESO-SAILS was thus deployed with Build 14 update in the spring of 2014 and is still in operations when needed. The operator can choose between 1, 2, or 3 supplemental low-level scans with MESO-SAILS active. MESO-SAILS in tornado cases A study published in 2016 looked at how the MESO-SAILS radar scanning regime performed with respect to tornado debris signature (TDS) detection during the 2016 tornado season in the Iowa Region, compared to the distribution before its implementation. When tornado watches were active, MESO-SAILS was active 100% reflecting the National Weather Service expectations for such situations. Overall, it was found that the use of MESO-SAILS led to an enhancement in detection and possibly an increased effective range at which TDSs could be detected. The use of MESO-SAILS dropped to 41% during severe thunderstorms watches however, which may suggest some benefit in keeping MESO-SAILS active during severe thunderstorm watches as well. References Bibliography Radar meteorology