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LDACS is set to be the worldwide standard in ATC communications,
opening up entirely new use cases for airlines and communications service providers.
Rohde & Schwarz: LDACS - The Future of ATC Communications (Photo: Rohde & Schwarz)
Munich, January 12, 2023 – Rohde & Schwarz has been working with research
partners to develop the new
L-band digital aeronautical communications system (LDACS),
a new air traffic control (ATC) communications system that significantly increases
bandwidth and allows modern IP-based communications. It is poised to replace the
current VHF digital link (VDL) mode 2 in civil aviation to become the future worldwide
standard.
LDACS offers data throughput that is up to about 200 times faster than VDL mode
2. LDACS specifically uses portions of the L band frequency reserved for flight
communications. It uses interference suppression algorithms and is optimized for
minimal out-of-band emissions and trouble-free operation alongside other flight
equipment operating in said band.
"Modern aviation demands the secure exchange of data," Thomas Bögl, Director
of Technology and Studies at Rohde & Schwarz, explains. "LDACS reliably
enables high data throughput that is secured with encryption. It can support a
wide variety of new applications, such as the data connections airlines need for
flight crews to efficiently plan fleet operations."
"Far more aircraft are flying nowadays and air traffic controllers need to be
able to distribute new navigation data faster, so that they can adjust flight paths
in time when the situation changes in their airspace. One interesting preliminary
LDACS application uses new data links to extend or replace slower VHF radio links
in existing ATC systems with much faster LDACS links. These quickly and noticeably
speed up data transmission without requiring a new system," Mr. Bögl continues.
Another LDACS benefit is its very simple path to a market launch. Reliable and
secure data transmission from LDACS will also help with new environmentally friendly
navigation methods. The plan is to select aircraft routes with precise coordinates
in three-dimensional space and with rigidly defined time limits. The 4D trajectory
concept can be used to dynamically route aircraft near airports to avoid noise protection
zones.
"The long-term goal is complete flight path management from departure to destination
exclusively with 4D trajectories for much more efficient and environmentally friendly
airspace usage, resulting in lower carbon emissions," adds Marius Münstermann, Vice
President ATC, Rohde & Schwarz.
The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action has created
an aviation research program (LuFo) for LDACS. Rohde & Schwarz is part of the
program. Other project partners such as the German Aerospace Center (DLR) are joining
forces to help develop LDACS technology. The working groups in the program are collaborating
with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to create and implement
flight acceptance standards.
As part of the recently launched LuFo project, "Pave the Way to Digital Aeronautical
Communications" (PaWaDACs), a technological cornerstone has been set that allows
the product development of LDACS ground equipment and LDACS airborne equipment starting
from 2025. The market launch of the equipment is expected for 2028. The early involvement
of Rohde & Schwarz in the LuFo project will give it a competitive edge in the
race for market leadership among LDACS suppliers.
The PaWaDACs project has been underway since early 2022. It focuses on miniaturizing
equipment demonstrators and preparing a realistic test installation at two locations
operated by the German air navigation service provider (DFS). Once completed, the
key technological steps needed for future LDACS systems will be firmly in place.
A solid basis will be available for developing new civil aviation products. "Rohde &
Schwarz will be able to supply equipment for ground stations and be well-positioned
to offer solutions to aircraft manufacturers, integrators and their customers for
use on board of aircraft," Mr. Bögl concludes.
About Rohde & Schwarz
The Rohde & Schwarz technology group is among the trailblazers when it comes
to paving the way for a safer and connected world with its leading solutions in
test & measurement, technology systems, and networks & cybersecurity. Founded
more than 85 years ago, the group is a reliable partner for industry and government
customers around the globe. On June 30, 2021, Rohde & Schwarz had around 13,000
employees worldwide. The independent group achieved a net revenue of EUR 2.34 billion
in the 2020/2021 fiscal year (July to June). The company is headquartered in Munich,
Germany.
R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG.
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at www.press.rohde-schwarz.com.
Contacts
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Columbia, MD
21046
Web: https://www.rohde-schwarz.com
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Posted January 13, 2023
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