These encompass surveillance radars, navigation aids, landing aids, communications equipment and other elements that contribute to the overall provision of the ATM capability.
Studies in 2004 revealed that much of this equipment is approaching obsolescence and that significant capital expenditure will be needed to sustain the capability for the future.
Filling the Capability Gap
The Joint Military Air Traffic Services (JMATS) project was initiated in November 2005 to identify and evaluate options for the future delivery of the military Terminal ATM capability. Early discussions with Industry indicated much support for a service based solution and a belief that there were significant opportunities to deliver a more coherent and cost effective solution.
Current Situation - 6 October 2008
Initial Gate Approval
In January 2008 Minister for Defence Equipment & Support (Min (DES)) and the Investment Approvals Board have approved the JMATS Initial Gate Business Case. The Assessment Phase is now underway evaluating a range of Partnering options. PFI will no longer be considered as a procurement option for JMATS.