Long-Range Surveillance Systems Help Improve ATC Coverage

Lockheed Martin has received a $1.6 million contract from the Brazilian Air Force to support six of its TPS-77 -- known in Brazil as the TPS-B34 -- long range air surveillance radars currently monitoring airspace in the Amazon region.

Since their installation between 2000 and 2005, the Lockheed Martin-manufactured radars have been an integral part of the Brazilian Integrated Air Traffic Control and Air Defense System (SISDACTA), also supplying information to the Amazon Protection System (SIPAM), a complex network of ground-based and airborne sensors providing surveillance in the region, implemented by the Amazon Surveillance System (SIVAM) Project.

The TPS-77s have dual-use capability, providing both air surveillance and air traffic control. These radars have withstood the unique environmental challenges experienced in the Amazon jungle and also have demonstrated 100% reliability during deployments, by road and by air, to support Brazilian Air Force exercises.

Under the terms of the contract, Lockheed Martin will provide technical support for the six radar systems and on-the-job training for Brazilian radar technicians. The one-year contract includes options to extend the support for up to five years.

The AN/TPS-77 is the latest configuration of what Lockheed terms "the world's most successful 3-D solid-state radar design." The transportable radar provides continuous high-quality 3-D surveillance on aircraft targets at ranges out to 250 nautical miles.

The AN/TPS-77 shares some technical components and maintenance activity with Lockheed Martin's AN/FPS-117 radar. There are 36 AN/TPS-77s and 134 AN/FPS-117 systems operational in 25 countries. Lockheed Martin notes many have performed for years completely unmanned in remote areas, and in a wide range of operational environments.

FMI: www.lockheedmartin.com/ms2