The contract, which has a five-year base, with five one-year options, will see Harris replace and upgrade the existing satellite communications network that links the Alaskan Air Route Traffic Control Center in Anchorage with 64 FAA facilities throughout the region. The work order includes 59 remote sites, three flight service stations (FSS) and a test and training facility (TTF).

   Harris also will replace and upgrade system components that have become obsolete or have been affected by the harsh Alaskan weather, as well as provide a new network management system, system security enhancements, logistics support and training.

   “We know the vital importance of communications to the FAA’s mission and the trust the FAA puts in us to ensure that new technology is transitioned in a manner that does not impact Alaskan air traffic operations,” Harris Mission Critical Networks Vice President John O’Sullivan said in a statement.

   Harris teammates on the ASTI program include: General Dynamics Satcom Technologies; General DataComm; Comtech EF Data; DHL Logistics; and Rockwell Collins Satellite Communications Services.