Muscat – Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has awarded a contract to global technology firm Thales and Omani company Ankaa Space and Technologies to deploy next-generation radar systems aimed at upgrading the country’s air traffic surveillance infrastructure.

The project covers the design, supply, installation and commissioning of Thales’ TRACSIGMA Primary Surveillance Radar and two RSM NG Secondary Surveillance Radars. The first system is scheduled for delivery in 2027.

The upgrade is intended to improve the safety, efficiency and resilience of Oman’s airspace management as aviation activity grows in line with the objectives of Vision 2040.

At the centre of the programme is TRACSIGMA, a multi-mission L-band primary surveillance radar capable of supporting both civil and military air surveillance and approach control operations. The system can detect a wide range of aerial objects, from drones to commercial aircraft.

With a range of up to 300km, the radar provides a three-dimensional view of airspace with high accuracy and improved resistance to interference.

The secondary surveillance system – RSM NG – will complement TRACSIGMA by enhancing aircraft identification and tracking through Mode S interrogations and ADS-B detection. It will be deployed both independently and alongside the primary radar.

The turnkey contract includes the construction of radar sites – towers, radomes and associated infrastructure. Both systems comply with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and EUROCONTROL standards and incorporate cybersecurity features.

Ankaa Space and Technologies specialises in space technologies, unmanned systems, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Its  collaboration with Thales is expected to generate around 40% in-country value through localisation of maintenance and support services, alongside training and knowledge transfer programmes.

Christophe Lanovsky, CEO of Thales in Oman, said the project reinforces the company’s focus on aviation safety and skills development.

“This collaboration not only showcases Thales’ advanced technology and commitment to safety in aviation but also emphasises our dedication to fostering local talent and capabilities. Together, we are building a robust framework for the future of air traffic management in Oman,” he said.

Mohammed Salim al Riyami, Co-founder of Ankaa Space and Technologies, told Muscat Daily that the agreement would support the training of seven young Omanis in radar installation and maintenance.

He described the project as a step towards localising advanced radar technologies and expanding national expertise in the sector.

Al Riyami added that the partnership with Thales would extend beyond the current project, with future cooperation planned in air traffic management, space technologies and cybersecurity. He said the company aims to develop local maintenance and technical support capacity, reducing dependence on external expertise and positioning Oman as a regional hub for advanced aviation technologies.