Czech ANS Integrates Multilateration Data into ARTAS

(Reston, VA., November 27, 2007) -- Once again, Czech ANS, the Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) of the Czech Republic, is leading the way in the adoption of next generation surveillance solutions. And once again, it is Era technology that is supporting these initiatives.

ARTAS is a multi-sensor surveillance tracker developed by Eurocontrol and supported by Comsoft GmbH of Germany. It is increasingly seen as the "best of breed" tracking solution and a solution that is independent of both surveillance sources and of the adopted ATM automation solution. In recognition of the rapid adoption of next generation surveillance technologies, ARTAS already supports ADS-B (ASTERIX 21) data and Eurocontrol has commissioned Comsoft to enhance ARTAS to support Multilateration (ASTERIX 20), so that both technologies can be rapidly absorbed into existing ATM automation systems.

Comsoft plans to deliver the multilateration interface in 2008/9; however, Czech ANS and Era have accelerated this process by adapting the multilateration data from the operational systems in the Czech Republic to output ADS-B-like information so that all aircraft can be tracked through ARTAS, independent of whether they are currently equipped with certified and operational ADS-B avionics.

"We are very happy with the support and progress being made by Comsoft and Eurocontrol in supporting these next generation technologies, which are already such an integral part of the Czech ANS infrastructure," said Ivan Uhlir, Surveillance Manager for Czech ANS. "The new Era interface allows us to accelerate the process by integrating multilateration data into a single stream, and serves to move the process along faster during this period when ADS-B equipage is variable."

Russell Hulstrom, Era's VP and GM for ATM Solutions, said, "We are very happy to be working with Czech ANS on this initiative, which we think is a fundamental and important step forward in the transition to a world 'Beyond Radar.' In 2007, we have seen a tremendous escalation in the rate of adoption of wide area multilateration as a radar-alternative, both in its own right and as a rational path towards a future ADS-B surveillance strategy." Hulstrom further said, "Established Era wide area surveillance customers, such as Czech ANS, AENA, ATNS, ARMATS and others, are now looking to Era for sophisticated support in integrating these technologies into operational systems, and we at Era are very happy to work with these customers to continue to innovate these next generation solutions."

Czech ANS also confirmed last week that it was to provide the test data and platform for the development of the final multilateration interface to ARTAS in 2008. "We look forward to providing Comsoft with all possible support in this endeavour," said Mr Uhlir. "With many years of operational experience with multilateration surveillance, we are sure we can help out on this very important Eurocontrol initiative."

Source : Era Corporation

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