Worldwide First 'Mode S'-Based Cluster Improves Efficient Use Of Airspace

The Airbus Defense and Space business line Electronics has concluded the delivery of the worldwide first air traffic control network based on the latest Eurocontrol standard Mode S to the flight safety branch of the German Air Force. This Mode S based network guarantees the automatized guidance of civil and military aircraft in an area of 1,700 x 1,500 km (approx. 1,050 x 930 miles).

Under the project “Ramos”, Airbus Defense and Space Electronics has equipped six long-range surveillance radars with so-called MSSR (Monopulse Secondary Surveillance Radar) 2000 I secondary radar systems. These secondary radars provide an overview of the air situation based on interrogations and automatic replies from individual aircraft. MSSR 2000 I is the only secondary radar certified according to the latest air traffic control standards, both civil and military.

In the military field, MSSR 2000 I is used for automatic friend-or-foe identification (IFF), thus avoiding the erroneous engagement of friendly forces. It is capable of the new Mode 5 military standard which is to be introduced in all NATO countries. MSSR 2000 I is deployed on German naval vessels and used by the armed and naval forces of numerous states worldwide. For civil air traffic control purposes it is in service in such countries as Austria, Portugal, Bulgaria and the Philippines.

FMI: www.airbusdefenceandspace.com