Will Propose Solutions For ADS-B

Aero-News learned Friday a team led by Lockheed Martin has been "down selected" by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to propose a solution for the Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) program, a cornerstone initiative for the agency's much-ballyhooed next generation air transportation system.

ADS-B uses Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites and onboard technology, instead of ground-based radars, to help pilots and air traffic controllers keep aircraft in the sky safely separated. Lockheed calls ADS-B the enabling technology for future communications, navigation and surveillance capabilities.

“By moving surveillance from ground-based radar systems to space-based satellites, ADS-B will provide more precise automatic broadcast of position, altitude and velocity. We believe the FAA is on the correct path with this essential NextGen system procurement, and are proud to be given the opportunity to bid on this critical service,” said Sue Corcoran, vice president of Aviation Solutions, Lockheed Martin Transportation and Security Solutions.

The FAA expects to accelerate development and deployment and drive costs off government books by making ADS-B a privatized service provision contract -- similar to the agency's handling of Flight Service Stations. As Aero-News reported, Lockheed Martin took over FSS operations from the FAA in October 2005.

“This approach minimizes FAA’s risk and provides it with greater flexibility, because the agency will rely on private industry to install and maintain equipment,” Corcoran said.

The Lockheed Martin ADS-B core team includes Sensis Corporation, Harris Corporation and Honeywell International.

FMI: www.lockheedmartin.com, www.faa.gov