A North Carolina-based company will soon deploy the next-generation surveillance radars to modernize the U.S. National Airspace System. Collins Aerospace has been awarded a $438 million contract by the Federal Aviation Administration to support the Radar System Replacement program, a cornerstone of the agency’s effort to modernize the U.S. National Airspace System. The program is a key part of the Department of Transportation’s Brand New Air Traffic Control System.
The company will deliver next-generation cooperative and non-cooperative radar systems, giving air traffic controllers reliable and secure information to support operations.
These new radars will simplify operations by replacing multiple legacy systems with a unified, cost-effective and adaptable architecture.
“As a trusted supplier to the FAA for more than 70 years, Collins is ready to rapidly deploy next-generation radar systems that replace outdated technology with a single, modern and interoperable solution,” said Nate Boelkins, president of Avionics at Collins Aerospace.
“These systems integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure, enhance safety and efficiency for air traffic controllers, reduce long-term costs and ensure the system is prepared for the future of the National Airspace.”
The company revealed that the new systems will include the Condor Mk3, a cooperative surveillance radar capable of communicating directly with aircraft transponders, and the ASR-XM, a non-cooperative radar that detects aircraft using reflected signals. Both are qualified to meet FAA surveillance requirements through prior test-site certification activities.
More than 550 RTX radar systems are already operating within the national airspace today, providing a proven foundation for large-scale modernization. RTX’s Condor Mk3 and ASR-XM radar systems provide precise aircraft tracking, especially at lower altitudes, according to a press release.
Secondary surveillance radar (SSR) — also called cooperative surveillance radar — provides precise aircraft identification, altitude, and tracking by interrogating aircraft transponders. Collins Aerospace delivers proven Mode S and monopulse SSR (MSSR) systems, including the next-generation Condor Mk3, supporting civil and military airspace worldwide
