Cranfield University selects Rohde and Schwarz to supply VCS system for UK’s first digital control tower

Created on 27.08.2018 15:18

Cranfield University selects Rohde and Schwarz to supply VCS system for UK’s first digital control tower

Rohde and Schwarz has been selected by Cranfield University to install its fully IP R&S VCS-4G voice communications system in what is expected to be UK's first Digital Control Tower at Cranfield Airport. The tower is expected to go live in December 2018.

For secure air traffic control (ATC) communications, Rohde & Schwarz will supply and install four controller-working positions at Cranfield Airport with a full IP voice communications system (VCS). The R&S VCS-4G system provides a fully integrated digital solution embracing voice communications, video streams, data communications and other services. The solution integrates and interfaces smoothly the analogue radios and the existing analogue telephone lines with VoIP technology embedded in the fully IP based R&S VCS-4G system. Data streams as well as door access control and other functions are all handled within the VCS, making it a central platform for the implementation of the Digital Control Tower.

R&S VCS-4G is based on VoIP technology with support of SIP, RTP, R2S protocols according to EUROCAE WG67 ED standard specifications. Due to its unique architecture, the system is highly scalable and can be easily expanded without replacing existing equipment. The R&S VCS-4G system has been designed to meet next generation ATC requirements such as asset sharing, facility consolidation, geographical distribution and remote tower technology, providing air navigation service providers (ANSPs) with an effective solution for present and future safety and efficiency objectives in global aviation.

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