Thales has introduced the TRAC SIGMA, a new multi-mission Primary Surveillance Radar (PSR) designed for simultaneous approach and long-range air surveillance. The radar supports both civil and military air traffic control operations, addressing challenges in increasingly congested airspace.
Operating in the L-Band, TRAC SIGMA is capable of detecting and discriminating small aircraft at distances of up to 300 kilometers. This performance enables the enforcement of the three-nautical-mile (3NM) minimum separation across all phases of flight, not just during final approach, in line with ICAO recommendations.
The system builds on technologies developed within the TRAC radar family and includes enhanced jamming resistance, higher availability, extended coverage, and full 3D air picture capability. These features support better coordination between civil and military air traffic controllers.
“With over 50 years’ experience in this field, Thales is continuously investing to lead the latest innovations in the Air Traffic Control radar market, helping ensure safer skies. TRAC SIGMA offers a single sensor for simultaneous approach and long-range surveillance supporting all air traffic control missions, and enables ATCOs to meet the challenges related to optimizing an increasingly congested airspace,” said Eric HUBER, Vice President Surface Radars, Thales.
TRAC SIGMA’s design includes 3D detection for aircraft at high or low altitudes and at extended ranges. It also features high availability with redundant components, resistance to interference and jamming, and compliance with international regulations. As a “2-in-1” radar, it also contributes to lifecycle cost savings through optimized infrastructure and resources.
Thales currently has over 1,200 air traffic control radars installed in more than 100 countries and continues to expand its offerings with next-generation solutions like TRAC SIGMA.
