Organized under the stewardship of IFATSEA President Ing. Frank Kofi Apeagyei and hosted by the Kenyan Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (KATSEA), this year’s Assembly carries the theme “Valuing, Acknowledging, and Recognizing the Safety-Critical Role of ATSEP Professionals.” The event brings together Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEP), affiliates, industry partners and aviation stakeholders from over 50 countries for five days of technical sessions, networking and collaboration, reflecting IFATSEA’s collective commitment to highlighting the vital contribution ATSEP professionals make to the safety, efficiency, resilience and modernization of the global air navigation system.

SITTI’s presence in Nairobi reflects its ongoing commitment to the global air traffic management community and its continued support for the technical and professional communities — including EUROCAE and ICAO working groups — that shape the standards and practices underpinning safe, reliable air navigation.

The event offers ATSEP professionals and air navigation service providers from across Africa and beyond an opportunity to engage directly with SITTI, reinforcing the company’s long-standing mission in a region of growing strategic importance for air traffic communication infrastructure, under their motto “The voice that guides you. Always.“

SITTI will participate in this IFATSEA event all along its duration with highly qualified personnel. We look forward to welcoming you at our booth.

SITTI contributed to the exercise with its TWR, APP/RADAR and ACC simulators, complemented by the Virtual-Pilot component, providing the technological capabilities needed to support realistic and complex training scenarios. These systems enabled participants to practise operational procedures, communications and coordination in challenging simulated environments, reflecting the demands of deploying and managing air traffic services under operational conditions.

The five-day programme combined theoretical instruction with practical simulations, focusing in particular on the activation of air traffic services and the transition from initial control by Combat Controllers to structured management by Air Traffic Controllers. The final demonstration, attended by military and civilian representatives, showcased the results achieved through a simulated scenario involving more than 600 aircraft.

The exercise was widely recognised as a success by both national and international participants, confirming the value of multinational cooperation, effective training and advanced simulation technologies in preparing personnel for demanding operational situations.

Through its contribution to VOLCANEX ATS 26, SITTI further demonstrates its commitment to supporting the training of air traffic control professionals and strengthening operational readiness and interoperability among allied forces. The exercise also represents an important step towards VOLCANEX ACE 27, planned for next year as part of AIR DEFENDER 27.

SITTI played an important role in the successful completion of VOLCANEX ATS 26, the international exercise organised by the European Air Group (EAG) and hosted by the Italian Air Force at the Reparto Addestramento Controllo Spazio Aereo (RACSA) in Pratica di Mare, Italy, from 5 to 9 October 2026. The exercise brought together about 40 specialists from EAG member nations to enhance interoperability and improve the delivery of Air Traffic Services (ATS) in mobile and deployable operational environments, in line with NATO’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept.

SITTI contributed to the exercise with its TWR, APP/RADAR and ACC simulators, complemented by the Virtual-Pilot component, providing the technological capabilities needed to support realistic and complex training scenarios. These systems enabled participants to practise operational procedures, communications and coordination in challenging simulated environments, reflecting the demands of deploying and managing air traffic services under operational conditions.

The five-day programme combined theoretical instruction with practical simulations, focusing in particular on the activation of air traffic services and the transition from initial control by Combat Controllers to structured management by Air Traffic Controllers. The final demonstration, attended by military and civilian representatives, showcased the results achieved through a simulated scenario involving more than 600 aircraft.

The exercise was widely recognised as a success by both national and international participants, confirming the value of multinational cooperation, effective training and advanced simulation technologies in preparing personnel for demanding operational situations.

Through its contribution to VOLCANEX ATS 26, SITTI further demonstrates its commitment to supporting the training of air traffic control professionals and strengthening operational readiness and interoperability among allied forces. The exercise also represents an important step towards VOLCANEX ACE 27, planned for next year as part of AIR DEFENDER 27.

The contract includes the installation, configuration, integration and commissioning of four independent IP-based VCS systems, each tailored to the operational requirements of its respective site. The supplied solutions integrate radio, telephone and intercom communications through SITTI’s proven MULTIFONO® M800IP platform, while providing intuitive Controller Working Positions (CWPs), supervisory workstations, GPS master clock systems, networking equipment and comprehensive spare parts to ensure high availability and operational continuity.

The project encompasses a diverse operational environment, ranging from conventional airport control towers to remote aerodrome flight information services (R-AFIS), demonstrating the flexibility and scalability of SITTI’s communication technology. Designed around a fully IP-based architecture, the systems will enhance controller efficiency while providing a robust and future-ready platform capable of supporting evolving operational requirements across Brazil’s air traffic management network.

Beyond the supply of equipment, SITTI will provide engineering, system design, testing, integration, training and commissioning services throughout the project lifecycle, working closely with NAV Brasil to ensure a smooth deployment and operational transition. The programme also includes compliance with Brazilian certification requirements and documentation in Portuguese, reflecting SITTI’s commitment to delivering tailored, high-quality solutions for international customers. This latest contract further strengthens SITTI’s presence in South America and confirms its role as a trusted partner in the modernization of mission-critical air traffic management communications.

The project, awarded by Geoscintex, with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) as the final customer, involves the delivery of a MULTIFONO® M800IP® Voice Communication System, specifically designed to support the operational requirements of Eldoret Airport’s control tower.

The system will integrate radio, telephone and intercom communications into a unified platform, providing air traffic controllers with the communication tools required for safe and efficient airport operations. The server-based architecture includes seven Controller Working Positions (CWPs), two servers configured in a cluster, and one client, supported by dedicated gateway equipment and communication interfaces.

In addition to the VCS, SITTI’s scope of supply includes spare parts, associated equipment, tools and a comprehensive range of services. These encompass factory testing and training, installation, system set-up, commissioning, Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and on-site operational training. SITTI will also provide warranty services, including online support, hardware and software repair, system upgrades and spare-parts obsolescence management.

The project will be implemented in close cooperation with Geoscintex and KCAA, with the Factory Acceptance Test planned for February 2027 and the Site Acceptance Test scheduled for May 2027.

Through this contract, SITTI confirms its commitment to delivering reliable, scalable and integrated communication solutions that support the modernization of air traffic control infrastructure and contribute to the safety and efficiency of aviation operations worldwide.

It aims to design, prototype and validate the next generation of air traffic services (ATS) platforms for the Digital European Sky. The consortium combines THALES entities, several air navigation service providers and industries, among which SITTI and Sopra Steria Group (SSG).

• Two targeted solutions

TS-1, “Enabling advanced operational concepts“, addresses the functional evolution of the ATS platform to support trajectory-based operations (TBO) and demand-capacity balancing (DCB). It covers higher levels of automation, tools to reduce environmental impact, wider use of air/ground exchanges using voice and CPDLC, and future ATC-ATC exchange mechanisms.

TS-2, “Architecture and infrastructure of future ATS platform“, focuses on flexibility, scalability and resilience. It explores the New Service Delivery Model (service-oriented architecture, interchangeable services) and the deployment and operation of ATM services in the cloud. It also assesses cyber-security, standardisation and certification implications.

Both solutions target TRL6 by the end of the project, starting from elements at TRL4 and, in some cases, TRL2.

• SITTI’s role

SITTI is a world leader in integrated systems for air traffic control, with a particular focus on voice communication systems (VCS), voice recorders and gateways. In HAVEN it provides its MULTIFONO® VCS, enhanced with a functional interface to Thales’ TopSky-ATC One. This gives the experimentation platform complete functional coverage, since voice remains essential even as CPDLC and machine-to-machine exchanges take over routine tasks. SITTI’s software runs on distributed COTS hardware platforms in a virtualised environment, which keeps VCS and ATC sub-systems physically separate.

SITTI contributes to both solutions:

• In TS-1, the SITTI VCS is part of the validation platform for the automation tools (real-time simulations with expert operators) and for flexible sectorisation within the DCB stream, moving from TRL4 to TRL6. SkyLab is also connected to SITTI VCS and to DSNA’s innovation platform. This gives access to a machine-learning speech recognition service (“Scribe”) and a voice-based safety net (“Cross Check”) that verifies clearances are consistent with voice communications.
• In TS-2, SITTI takes part in the innovative services work, notably the “Voice as a Service” concept, in which voice functions are delivered to controller working positions as a cloud service. It also takes part in the “ATM in the cloud” stream, which tests use cases such as public/private cloud operation, shadow mode and seamless upgrades.

SITTI’s contribution also has a standardisation dimension. It chairs the EUROCAE WG-126 group, which defines interface standards between VCS and ATC systems. Together with Thales, SITTI will extend WG-126’s ATC/VCS interoperability use cases within the cloud experiments, so the project’s results can feed future standards.

Overall, SITTI’s participation shows that voice communication can be integrated into a highly automated, virtualised and cloud-based ATS platform without losing the resilience and safety that controllers rely on.

Read more here: https://www.sesarju.eu/news/building-air-traffic-control-platform-future

The system being supplied is quite complex. It constitutes of one MULTIFONO^® M800IP^® VCS, equipped with radios, controller working positions and intercom facilities, which are connected to a VRS800S Digital Multi-Track Recorder/Replay System. All this is complemented by a DEC10 time reference system that provides precise time synchronisation, even in the absence of connection to GPS satellites.

A long and comprehensive set of tests have been performed to ensure that all components comply with the strict specifications defined by the customer and with the requirements defined by the EUROCAE ED137 standard. As a result of all these tests, the system passed SAT (Site Acceptance Test) and can now be delivered to its final destination.

The VCS is equipped with fixed controller working positions (CWP) using 24-inch desktop screens, plus mobile ones that can be safely transported and tactically deployed according to operational needs. These latter CWPs consist of a shockproof briefcase containing all what is needed to remotely connect to the VCS via a 15-inch touchscreen.

SITTI systems once more demonstrated their intrinsic flexibility, being capable of validly respond to both civil and military needs, wherever secure, safe and reliable communication is needed.

The project includes the supply and installation of one MULTIFONO^® M800IP^® Voice Communication System (VCS), a state-of-the-art platform designed to meet modern air traffic control requirements. The system is equipped with Controller Working Positions (CWP) and provides comprehensive radio, telephone, and intercom functionalities, ensuring seamless coordination between operators and external communication channels.

In addition to the core system, the supply encompasses a complete set of associated equipment, tools, and services necessary for installation, operation, and maintenance. The configuration integrates eight VoIP radio channels (Tx + Rx), enabling robust and flexible communication with aircraft and ground services. The system also includes four Controller Working Positions, each equipped with standard electroacoustic devices to ensure high-quality audio performance and operator comfort.

For system monitoring and management, a supervision platform is included, consisting of two servers and one client workstation. This setup ensures high availability, redundancy, and efficient control of the entire communication infrastructure.

The telephone interface is designed to support multiple connectivity options, including four VoIP lines, two FXO lines, and four FXS lines, allowing integration with both modern IP-based and traditional telephony systems.

All equipment is scheduled to be ready by September 2026, marking a significant milestone in strengthening Vietnam’s air traffic communication capabilities and supporting the continued growth of its aviation sector.

Representing the project at the event, were ANTICIPATE partners SITTI and CIRA, who actively engaged with stakeholders, industry representatives, technology providers, researchers and institutional actors from across the global aviation ecosystem.

Airspace World 2026 once again proved to be a unique opportunity for collaboration, networking and knowledge exchange, bringing together the international ATM and aviation community for three days of discussions, innovation showcases and strategic dialogue. The event highlighted the strong momentum of the aviation sector towards smarter, safer and more sustainable skies.

In this context, ANTICIPATE had the opportunity to increase the visibility of its objectives and innovative solutions, while strengthening connections with relevant stakeholders and fostering new opportunities for cooperation. Participation in Airspace World represented an important occasion to present the project’s vision and its contribution to the future evolution of European air traffic management.

Thanks to its strong commitment to advancing Air Traffic Flow and Capacity Management (ATFCM) and addressing current “capacity-on-demand” operational challenges, ANTICIPATE fully embraces the vision and objectives of the SESAR Joint Undertaking towards the implementation of a more sustainable, resilient and efficient European sky.

The project strongly aligns with the SESAR JU mission of supporting the implementation of the Single European Sky by connecting long-term vision, innovation, operations, deployment and policy. Through this shared ambition, ANTICIPATE contributes to shaping a modern and competitive European airspace capable of responding to future aviation demands while improving operational efficiency and sustainability.

Participation in Airspace World 2026 further reinforced ANTICIPATE’s role within the European aviation innovation landscape and demonstrated the importance of collaboration among industry, research institutions and public stakeholders to drive positive change across the sector.

The new system has been engineered with a highly resilient and redundant architecture to ensure uninterrupted communications in critical aviation operations. According to the System Configuration Description document, the solution includes redundant LAN networks, dual routers operating in high-availability mode, and multiple Controller Working Positions (CWPs) distributed across tower (TWR), approach (APP), area control centre (ACC), briefing offices, and simulation rooms. The system also integrates VoIP radio interfaces, analogue recording systems, and IP-based communication technologies to support both current and future operational demands.

A major advantage of the new VCS is its migration toward IP-based communications. Radios at Entebbe Airport and several regional sites, including Gulu, Masindi, Arua, and Mbarara, will be connected via VoIP rather than traditional E1 systems. This modern architecture improves scalability, simplifies maintenance, and enhances audio quality and network resilience. The system will also support emergency and search-and-rescue frequencies, reinforcing Uganda’s aviation safety infrastructure.

The supply package includes sixteen advanced touchscreen controller working positions, supervisor servers, IP telephony systems, recording modules, and integrated GPS clock synchronization equipment. Additionally, the project covers on-site installation, system configuration, and staff training, ensuring that UCAA personnel are fully prepared to operate and maintain the new platform.

A strategic partnership between Pureflex Systems Limited and SITTI S.p.A has enabled the successful introduction of this state-of-the-art communication technology into Uganda’s aviation sector. Through the collaboration, Pureflex Systems Ltd, a local systems integrators, provides local systems integration expertise, technical coordination, and implementation support, while SITTI contributes globally recognized aviation communication technologies and engineering capabilities. This partnership demonstrates the growing role of international-local collaboration in strengthening Uganda’s critical aviation infrastructure and advancing the modernization of air traffic management systems in line with global aviation standards.

Overall, the implementation of the SITTI M800IP VCS represents a significant modernization step for Entebbe International Airport. By introducing a robust, fully redundant, and IP-enabled communication environment, UCAA will strengthen air traffic coordination capabilities, improve operational reliability, and support the continued growth of Uganda’s aviation sector.

This contract marks an important achievement in the modernization of air traffic communication systems for the Cayman Islands. The project includes the delivery of one VCS and one VRS system for each airport, together with complete operator console installations for control towers, approach rooms, technical rooms, and training facilities. The new infrastructure is designed to enhance operational reliability, improve communication efficiency, and support future air traffic growth across the Cayman Islands.

The contract represents a significant international project for SITTI and confirms the company’s position as a trusted provider of mission-critical communication technologies for aviation environments. The systems supplied under the contract feature modern VoIP architecture, radio and telephone integration, advanced recording capabilities, redundant network infrastructure, GPS clock synchronization, and ergonomic operator workstations specifically designed for air traffic control operations.

The project roadmap pays special attention will also be dedicated to software integration with THALES TopSky systems and to the careful planning of on-site installation activities, ensuring uninterrupted airport operations during the transition phase.

The signing of this contract demonstrates the strong collaboration between SITTI, THALES, and the Cayman Islands Airports Authority. It also highlights a shared commitment to delivering innovative, resilient, and future-ready communication solutions that will contribute to safer and more efficient air traffic management throughout the Cayman Islands.