RENAR The first IP network in air traffic control

Frequentis received the framework contract for an IP-based voice network in early January 2008. NextiraOne is the prime contractor on the wider project overseeing the complete renewal of the basic network. The RENAR project replaces the existing network with an IP-based alternative for both voice and data communication. Since IP-based networks are a new development in air traffic management, the innovatory approach taken by French air traffic control rightly positions it as a technological trendsetter. The aim is to upgrade the ATC network with the very latest technology, ensuring it is best equipped to meet the special challenges of modern air traffic control. Particularly those challenges related to performance, failsafe operation and availability. The use of a single network for both voice and data will produce significant cost reductions over the next few years. Hannes Bardach, CEO of Frequentis AG, commentsStrategically, RENAR is a key project for us. Obviously it is another important client reference for our network products. But it is also the first ever implementation of the EUROCAE standardisation guidelines for VoIP in civil ATM. Frequentis is an ideal choice for implementing this project, given the companys participation in EUROCAE Working Group 67 (which addresses the use of VoIP in ATM). Frequentis VCX is heading for more success RENAR is yet further evidence of the markets approval of the Frequentis network node product: the VCX network node is already in use in Austria, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Mexico, Australia and New Zealand. French air traffic control will get a solution based on a state-of-the-art IP expansion of the VCX. Frequentis will equip all French air traffic control sites (ACCs, APPs and towers) with network gateways. Voice (ground-ground communication) and radio (air-ground communication) systems will be integrated in the solution to ensure failsafe communication both among the controllers and between the controllers and pilots. RENAR will take about four years to be completed. We are thrilled to be working with French air traffic control on a project which represents such an innovatory step for civil ATM, says Bardach. Frequentis and the French Market RENAR continues the success story of Frequentis in France. The company first entered the French market in 1994. Among the projects since completed are ARTEMIS - radio and telephone voice communication systems for the five French ACCs, CARTOUM - an integrated radio and telephone voice communication system for the Outre-Mer airports), and delivery of integrated radio/telephone voice communication systems for towers in Brest, Deauville, Rennes, Bastia and Ajaccio . In 2007, the Frequentis VCS 3020X and DIVOS logger went operational at Charles-de-Gaulle airport: it is one of the worlds most complex high-capacity voice communication systems.