RTX Invests Millions in New ATC Radars

Funding will accelerate the production of ground-based aviation surveillance systems, though more funding could be required.

Jack Daleo

Monday, May 11, 2026 at 09:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

RTX’s Collins Aerospace is one of two contractors the FAA picked in January to replace hundreds of antiquated commercial aviation radars. [Credit: Collins Aerospace]

Key Takeaways:

RTX is investing $26.5 million to expand its Largo, Florida, facility to produce upgraded commercial aviation radars, fulfilling part of a $438 million FAA contract for its subsidiary Collins Aerospace.
These new Condor Mk3 and ASM-XR radars are central to the FAA's goal of replacing over 600 outdated systems by 2028, aiming for improved situational awareness, reliability, and resilience against modern disruptions like 5G.
The radar replacement is a significant component of the FAA's broader multi-billion dollar initiative to modernize the entire Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, which also includes installing thousands of new radios, digital voice switches, and exploring advanced automation and AI-powered management systems.

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RTX on Monday said it will put millions of dollars toward the production of upgraded commercial aviation radars, which are being installed at airports nationwide as part of the FAA’s Brand New Air Traffic Control (ATC) System project.

A $26.5 million investment will expand the company’s Largo, Florida, facility to add a radar production area by late 2026. The systems are produced by RTX subsidiary Collins Aerospace, which in January won a $438 million FAA contract.