WATMC 2017: Rohde & Schwarz showcases its comprehensive portfolio for innovative air traffic management

The electronics company will present its comprehensive solutions for secure ATC airborne communications and innovative air traffic management at the World ATM Congress (WATMC) from March 7 to 9, 2017. One highlight is the innovative R&S VCS-4G voice communications system. In January 2017, the British Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) NATS awarded Rohde & Schwarz the order to supply a fully voice over IP (VoIP) solution for its Second Voice System to ensure secure radiocommunications in UK airspace. Within the framework of the Single European Sky (SES) initiative, NATS will modernize its entire air traffic management (ATM) infrastructure over the next few years. As part of this modernization, ATC communications will be converted from TDM-based systems to VoIP. As airspace becomes more crowded, there is an increased demand for load-based reallocation of resources while ensuring efficient and sustainable air traffic control (ATC) in line with the highest safety standards.

The company will also demonstrate its software defined radios for secure ATC airborne communications. The detection of simultaneous transmissions (DSiT) software option for R&S Series4200 mobile devices enables operators to quickly recognize simultaneous transmissions on a radio channel, preventing dangerous situations caused by misunderstandings between air traffic controllers and pilots.

The use of IP technology in air traffic management is also a key factor in protecting against the growing threat of cyberattacks. Rohde & Schwarz offers in-house solutions designed to meet these needs. Rohde & Schwarz Cybersecurity develops and produces technologically leading solutions "made-in-Germany", including highly secure encryption, next generation firewalls and software for network analysis and endpoint security.

A growing threat in high-security environments is posed by remote control drones. These flying objects pose a safety risk at airports where they interfere with air traffic flow. The R&S ARDRONIS radiomonitoring system allows users to locate the operator of a remote controlled drone and intervene in a timely manner. R&S ARDRONIS automatically and reliably detects when the remote control of a commercial off-the-shelf drone is activated within the vicinity of the airport.

The expertise of Rohde & Schwarz in the field of air traffic management is supplemented by its traffic control and interference hunting solutions and its cutting-edge T&M equipment for terrestrial air navigation.

At the World ATM Congress in Madrid from March 7 to 9, 2017, Rohde & Schwarz will showcase its comprehensive portfolio for state-of-the-art air traffic management at booth 586 in hall 9. 

One highlight for the World ATM Congress (WATMC) is the innovative R&S VCS-4G voice communications system.