The FAA took another step toward modernization of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) System yesterday, announcing contracts with two aerospace firms to replace the Agency’s outdated radar network. The contracts with RTX and Indra allow for replacement of up to 612 radars by June 2028, beginning this quarter on a rolling basis and prioritizing high-traffic areas. “Our radar network is outdated and long overdue for replacement. Many of the units have exceeded their intended service life, making them increasingly expensive to maintain and difficult to support,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “We are buying radar systems that will bring production back to the U.S. and provide a vital surveillance backbone to the National Airspace System.” The use of commercially available surveillance radars is expected to expedite the replacement process, which is funded by 2025’s One Big Beautiful Bill.