VIRGINIA BEACH -- National defense matters and economic development could be at odds in Virginia Beach.

A Federal Aviation Administration-managed radar complex at NAS Oceana conducts surveillance for Homeland Security.

The FAA’s aeronautical studies of five proposed developments in the resort city, including a new convention center hotel, declared all of them problematic for the complex - at least initially.  The projects are too tall.

Video: Proposed developments in Va. Beach on FAA's radar

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FAA documents advise that "any height exceeding 110 feet above ground level (120 feet above mean sea level), will result in a substantial adverse effect and would warrant a determination of hazard to air navigation."

FAA spokesman Jim Peters, speaking from his office in New York, confirmed the assessment but added "All we do is issue a determination. We have no regulatory power. We can't prevent it from being built."  

Deputy City Manager Steve Herbert suggests moving the radar to a place that will not hurt the mission or the city's ability to develop.

"We are committed to the Navy. We work with the Navy. We have spent countless hours and millions of dollars to make sure Oceana is going to be here," he stated.  

Four years ago, the Base Realignment and Closure Commission threatened Virginia Beach’s livelihood.  Since then, the city has taken steps to limit development around NAS Oceana, the Navy’s East Coast Master Jet Base.