Rockwell Collins successfully demonstrates controller-pilot data link communications through NEXCOM network

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (September 15, 2003) - Rockwell Collins is the first avionics supplier to successfully demonstrate controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC) through the NEXCOM VDL Mode 3 ground network.

The demonstration took place July 15 at the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) William J. Hughes Technical Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Simultaneous Mode 3 digital voice and data, along with the enhanced voice features of Mode 3, were demonstrated during flight testing. The enhanced features include controller override, anti-blocking, next channel uplink and urgent downlink.

Multiple system configurations (four voice, two voice/two data and three voice) provided comprehensive validation testing of the Mode 3 system for the FAA.

The successful demonstration was the culmination of a year-long development program involving Rockwell Collins, the FAA and MITRE Corp. Avionics equipment used during the demonstration included Rockwell Collins' VHF-920A VHF Data Radio and the CMU-900 Communication Management Unit, along with the Gables Engineering G7424-302 radio tuning panel.

The program began in December 2001 when the FAA awarded Rockwell Collins a contract to develop NEXCOM VDL Mode 3-compliant avionics for air transport aircraft. In July 2003, an extension was awarded to develop Mode 3 avionics for business jet customers.

"Our relationship with the FAA remains very strong and mutually beneficial," said Rockwell Collins VHF Program Manager Nancy Guzak.

Rockwell Collins has been instrumental in the development of VHF and data link communication systems. In June 2001, the company became the first supplier to certify CPDLC with the aeronautical telecommunications network and VDL Mode 2 for American Airlines' Boeing 767 aircraft in the Eurocontrol PETAL program.

Rockwell Collins VDL Mode 2 avionics have also been certified on American Airlines, Continental Airlines and U.S. Air Force aircraft for use in the FAA CPDLC Build 1 program.

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