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NAV CANADA to purchase technology from DFS

Surveillance fusion is technology that allows the seamless presentation of targets generated from a variety of surveillance sources. These include traditional radar, the newer Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS – B), new Multilateration systems, and most recently, video surveillance.

The system will provide a more precise fused target from the varying sources, which will be displayed with the corresponding flight data information to the air traffic services staff as they separate aircraft and provide critical information and advisory services to maintain the safety of the skies.

The DFS technology will be adapted to replace the existing NAV CANADA radar data processor. The new system will be rolled out over the next couple of years in all seven NAV CANADA Area Control Centres (ACC), providing a common air surveillance picture to all display systems currently in use.

"We are pleased to sign this agreement with DFS – a valued partner of NAV CANADA," said John Crichton, President and CEO of NAV CANADA. "DFS surveillance fusion technology is the most advanced in the world, and is far more affordable than other alternatives considered."

"We are excited to be collaborating with NAV CANADA on this important project to implement our made-in-Germany fusion technology," said Dieter Kaden, Chairman and CEO of DFS. "Based on our own experience with the technology, we are confident it will bring important safety and efficiency gains to the Canadian ANS."

This procurement decision is consistent with the NAV CANADA approach of avoiding duplicate development by purchasing proven technology which can be quickly implemented in its own operating environment. "Other Air Navigation Systems recognize the value of this approach when they buy NAV CANADA technology solutions, and this decision is based on the same principle," Crichton said.

"The DFS technology incorporates an advanced fusion tracker and the associated safety net and support functions for upgrading our operational environment," said Kim Troutman, NAV CANADA Vice President, Engineering. "Safety and efficiency benefits include more complete and accurate surveillance coverage, reductions in nuisance safety alerts and track uncertainties, enhanced monitoring, less adaptation and certification effort, and more advanced and automated test and support tools."

The new system will be integrated with the two key NAV CANADA flight data processors – the Canadian Automated Air Traffic System and the Gander Automated Air Traffic System – as well as with the NAV CANADA Auxiliary Radar Display System. Consolidated data from the new system will also be used for billing, traffic flow management, performance metrics, noise monitoring and many applications which rely on traffic data.

In addition to replacing the existing radar data processor and its associated maintenance display and test systems, the arrangement with DFS also involves provision of systems and tools for development, training and support at the NAV CANADA Technical Systems Centre and the Company's Simulation Centre, both in Ottawa; and at the training facilities in the NAV CENTRE in Cornwall.