BETHESDA, Md.-Comsat Corp. reported its mobile communications business unit received a five-year extension for satellite services supporting the Federal Aviation Administration’s space-based aircraft navigation system.
The extension expands the previously announced $57 million contract between Comsat and the FAA and has an estimated additional value of up to $24 million, according to the company.
Comsat will continue to provide satellite capacity and communications for the Wide Area Augmentation System operating with the global positioning system used by the Department of Defense.
WAAS Reference Station Facilities collect data from the GPS network, which is then processed and transmitted directly to the aircraft through Comsat’s ground stations and satellite service.
According to the company, the system allows aircraft to receive highly accurate positioning signals during all phases of flight, improving aircraft position accuracy. This results in more direct routing of aircraft, saving time, fuel and money, and improves approach and landing safety.
