Harris has been awarded a $141m contract to modernise India’s air traffic management communications infrastructure. Credit: HarrisCorporation.

Technology company Harris has secured a Rs9.45bn ($141m) contract to develop the Airports Authority of India’s (AAI) Futuristic Telecommunications Infrastructure (FTI) initiative.

Under the contract, Harris will serve as the prime contractor and systems integrator for the initiative.

The proposal will focus on upgrading network operations, boosting security and enhancing the performance and quality of India’s air traffic management (ATM) network, all while slashing telecommunications expenses.

AAI chairman Dr Guruprasad Mohapatra said: “India’s exponential air traffic growth is creating demand for new aircraft, air navigation technologies, airport security equipment and infrastructure.

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“The new secure, purpose-built network will meet the demands of India’s rapid aviation growth and lay the foundation for future ATM opportunities.”

“The Futuristic Telecommunications Infrastructure provides a dedicated nationwide network to support air traffic management operations, with an emphasis on safety and high reliability and the ability to expand for growth.”

Harris will use its Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) managed services network, which securely connects more than 4,400 national and international FAA and Department of Defense facilities.

The network also allows the FAA to support safe and efficient air travel of more than 87,000 aircraft daily.

Harris Electronic Systems Mission Networks vice-president and general manager Rick Simonian said: “The new secure, purpose-built network will meet the demands of India’s rapid aviation growth and lay the foundation for future ATM opportunities for Harris in other geographies with high air traffic growth.”

“AAI’s selection of our FAA-proven managed network services model allows the agency to benefit from the most current telecommunications technology, enhanced safety and efficiency, and reduced operational costs.”

AAI, which owns and maintains 129 airports across India, believes that the new technology will significantly enhance network’s capacity and thereby support India’s fast-growing air traffic.