USTDA Supports Development of Ionospheric Threat Model for Brazilian Airspace

(USTDA) Facilitating Deployment of Ground Based Augmentation Systems (GBAS)

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Yesterday, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) awarded a grant to Serviços de Defesa e Tecnológicas de Processos (SDTP), a federally mandated nonprofit foundation established in 2002 to advance the knowledge and use of technologies related to civil aviation navigation and airport infrastructure in Brazil. The grant will fund a feasibility study to support the development of an ionospheric threat model that will support GBAS implementation in Brazil. GBAS is one of the key technologies required to support the global transition to satellite navigation.

The study will define the threat model for all GBAS installations throughout Brazil and will be applicable to other locations as well. Brazil's leadership with this study will provide a foundation for a safe transition to a satellite based navigation infrastructure throughout Brazilian airspace and the South American region. Yesterday, the grant was signed at the U.S. Consulate in Rio de Janeiro by U.S. Consul General John S. Creamer, on behalf of USTDA, and SDTP President Paulo Hegedus.

Consul General Creamer noted, "I'm pleased to be here today to sign this important cooperation agreement between the U.S. Government, through the USTDA, and the SDTP. Facilitating partnerships between U.S. and Brazilian institutions is one of U.S. Mission Brazil's highest priorities."

"SDTP, with the concurrence of the Department of Airspace Control (DECEA), is honored to be a part of this vital project," said SDTP President Paulo Hegedus. "And looks forward to working closely with government, academia, and commercial organizations in Brazil and the US to bring a successful outcome."

In addition to the government agencies and universities from Brazil and the United States, a U.S. company, Mirus Technology, LLC (Fairfax, VA), has been selected to carry out the USTDA-funded study.