Characteristics of the contemporary Antarctic firn layer simulated with IMAU-FDM v1.2A (1979-2020)

This study presents a modeling approach to simulate the evolution of the Antarctic firn layer. It presents the re-calibration of a firn model (IMAU-FDM), with forcing from an updated regional climate model (RACMO2.3p2). The calibration mostly follows the same approach as in the initial model release but with a more extensive dataset of firn cores and surface snow density measurements. Based on a 1979-2020 model simulation, the study presents an analysis of spatio-temporal features in firn thickness, firn air content (FAC) and surface elevation change over the entire Antarctic ice sheet. I welcome this contribution to firn model improvement. The modeling capabilities and the full coupling between climate and firn models are two remarkable aspects of this study. The model pair IMAU-FDM – RACMO is often used for evaluating the firn height change component in altimetry studies, and it is thus paramount to accurate estimates of ice sheet mass balance change by the glaciological community. But this study often gives the feeling to be a simple update of the work of Ligtenberg et al. (2011). For this reason, I find this study slightly too superficial, and several points can be evaluated and analyzed in more details. Nevertheless, I believe that, by building upon the work already achieved for this first version of the manuscript, a future revised and updated version will be a good contribution to The Cryosphere , and to firn model development in general. review comments. My comments highlight current weaknesses of the that a in the or more in-depth My Minor comments require clarity, and/or strong justifications from The Specific comments are remarks concerning