The U.S. Air Force has awarded Rockwell Collins a contract to provide systems integration and avionics for the KC-10 Communication, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) Cockpit Modernization Program. The contract, valued at more than $160 million over the life of the program, calls for Rockwell Collins to provide the flight management system, displays, data link communications and surveillance capabilities.

“This program provides technology that ensures the KC-10 meets current and future CNS/ATM requirements, allowing it to operate in commercial airspace throughout the world,” said Dave Nieuwsma, vice president and general manager of Mobility and Rotary Wing Solutions for Rockwell Collins. “These new capabilities will allow the aircraft to arrive at its destination quicker, enhancing mission effectiveness while saving fuel.”

With this award, Rockwell Collins is now the primary avionics provider for all U.S. Air Force tankers, building on its strong tradition of success providing integrated avionics solutions for military aircraft. By leveraging key avionics and communications developments across the company’s commercial and military businesses and applying commercial-off-the-shelf technology along with an open systems approach, Rockwell Collins is able to provide its customers with best value solutions.

The KC-10 aircraft is an Air Mobility Command advanced tanker and cargo aircraft designed to provide increased global mobility for U.S. armed forces. Although the aircraft’s primary mission is aerial refueling, it can combine the tasks of a tanker and cargo aircraft by refueling fighters and simultaneously carrying fighter support personnel and equipment on overseas deployments.

Rockwell Collins press release