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Raytheon Company has signed a contract with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Satellite Center for the ground-based elements of the GPS (Global Positioning System) and GEO (Geostationary Earth Orbit) Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) Technology Demonstration System (TDS). The contract, terms of which were not disclosed, was signed recently in Bangalore.
GAGAN-TDS, a cooperative effort between Raytheon and ISRO, will usher in a new era in civil navigation through use of the space-based augmentation system. When completed, GAGAN will augment the standard positioning signals from the GPS satellites with an additional signal to improve the accuracy, integrity, continuity, and availability of the aircraft receiver. The GAGAN project is part of a world-wide movement toward space-based navigation, which has been endorsed by the International Civil Aviation Organization. It will increase safety and efficiency by allowing precision approaches to all airports and direct routing between destinations.
The Airports Authority of India is collaborating with ISRO on the project and will be the agency to place the commissioned system into operation. Other modes of transportation, such as rail, maritime, and road traffic, will also be able to use the signal for a variety of applications.
"Signing the GAGAN contract is a great development in U.S.-India space and air traffic management cooperation," said Sue Baumgarten, president, Raytheon International. "It is another example of the deepening relationship between our two countries, as well as the expanding opportunities for Raytheon in India. This is an important relationship for Raytheon, and we are committed to earning the confidence of our Indian customers." |
