Rockwell Collins commemorates delivery of final upgraded aircraft for C/KC-135 Global Air Traffic Management (GATM) program

The delivery marks the conclusion of a 100 percent on time, on budget program providing the Air Force C/KC-135 fleet with unhindered access to global air routes, enabling the tanker fleet with enhanced mission effectiveness while saving fuel.

This program set a new performance standard for Air Force procurements with 100 percent of the upgraded aircraft delivered on time and within budget," said Dave Nieuwsma, vice president and general manager of Mobility and Rotary Wing Solutions for Rockwell Collins. "The key to the program's success was a close working relationship with the Air Force to make sure their requirements were well understood up front and then validated through rigorous testing as the new capability was introduced to the fleet."

As the prime contractor and flight deck systems integrator, Rockwell Collins provided technology through an open systems approach that upgrades the aircraft with a variety of Communications, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) products.

The C/KC-135 provides the core aerial refueling capability for the U.S. Air Force and has excelled in this role for more than 50 years. This unique asset enhances the Air Force's capability to accomplish its primary missions, while providing aerial refueling support to Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and allied nation aircraft.

Rockwell Collins continues to support the Air Force in upgrading the C/KC-135 with new capabilities.  In 2009, the Air Force selected Rockwell Collins for the Engineering, Manufacturing and Development phase of the C/KC-135 Block 45 cockpit upgrade program. Under this contract, Rockwell Collins will further modernize the C/KC-135 refueling tankers flight deck with the latest generation autopilot, flight director, radar altimeter and electronic engine instrument display.