Rohde & Schwarz, a global leader in communications and information technology, has teamed up with NAV CANADA, the country’s air navigation service provider (ANSP), to fortify air traffic control (ATC) communications across Canada. The collaboration, marked by the signing of a contract for a « Backup Voice Communication Solution, » signifies a significant advancement in ensuring the safety and efficiency of ATC operations throughout the region.
Rohde & Schwarz delivers CERTIUM VCS for safe and efficient ATC communication across Canada
Under the terms of the agreement, Rohde & Schwarz will provide a comprehensive, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) solution based on its CERTIUM VCS platform, which adheres to the latest ED-137 standard. This solution will be implemented in multiple systems, each featuring a quad-redundant architecture and operating within NAV CANADA’s virtualized environment.
These systems will offer robust coverage for all major airports and centers operated by NAV CANADA. The project, set to span over the next five years, will involve the deployment of more than 600 operational Operator Working Positions (OWP), which will be seamlessly interconnected with over 700 phone services and 800 radio frequencies.
As part of this initiative, Rohde & Schwarz will also supply the Main VCS system for the International Flight Service Station located in Gander, which provides HF radio services over the Atlantic Ocean and Arctic region of Canada. This expansion of the CERTIUM VCS capability will ensure the highest level of safety and efficiency in managing air traffic in this critical airspace.
“Having a modern and fully-fledged second voice communications system, that can be utilized not only in case of emergencies but also during planned maintenance or other occasions, is central to ATC operations across Canada, providing even greater safety, efficiency and resiliency into the future,” Mark Cooper, Vice President, Chief Technology and Information Officer, NAV CANADA said. “We have been impressed with the solutions and work efforts from Rohde & Schwarz from previous programs and are looking forward to our collaboration with them.”
“Rohde & Schwarz is thrilled to partner with NAV CANADA on this important project, which will enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic control operations across the Canadian airspace,” Anne Stephan, Vice President Critical Infrastructure & Network, Rohde & Schwarz, explains. “We will provide comprehensive support for the project for more than 15 years after its implementation. This commitment underscores our dedication to long-term customer satisfaction and the reliability of our solutions. We remain committed to delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry.”
The CERTIUM VCS is a cutting-edge, IP-based voice communications system that seamlessly integrates into the CERTIUM portfolio. With its advanced features and robust security mechanisms, the CERTIUM VCS can support remote digital facilities systems and connect area control centers to virtual centers, enabling quick and flexible transfers between centers and even countries.