DFS completes modernisation of radio stations

DFS, the German air navigation service provider, has successfully completed the RASUM 8.33 project (Radio Site Upgrade and Modernisation). Since 2010, the Germany-wide modernisation of radio technology has been carried out with around 4,000 radios at almost 100 radio sites. These stations are connected to the four DFS control centres and the 15 designated international German airports under the responsibility of DFS.  

With the commissioning of the last radio station in Auderath (Rhineland-Palatinate), the project has now been completed. This project has enabled DFS to optimise aeronautical radio coverage in Germany as a whole. Independent, redundant telecommunications connections and new antenna systems have been installed. The renewal and standardisation of the buildings and infrastructure at the radio sites was also part of the project. 

Commenting on the project, Friedrich-Wilhelm Menge, Chief Technology Officer on the DFS Executive Board, said: "The modernised sites will enable DFS to meet new challenges, such as voice transmission via Voice-over-IP (VoIP)." VoIP is a technology that enables voice communication to be transmitted via IP networks. In contrast to conventional analogue systems, VoIP offers higher voice quality and better scalability. 

By converting radio sites to the new 8.33-kilohertz channel spacing, DFS is complying with Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1079/2012. The goal is to eliminate the frequency shortage in Europe by reducing channel spacing. 

The radio technology was supplied by the Rohde & Schwarz technology group.  

Picture Credit: Control centre Karlsruhe (© DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH)