The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications of the Kingdom of Bahrain has recently signed a contract with Leonardo to upgrade and enhance air traffic control and radar systems at Manama Airport.
This project is part of the Bahrain’s ongoing commitment to bolster aviation safety, airspace efficiency and regional air navigation services.
Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, announced a strategic contract signing with Leonardo S.p.A on the sidelines of the Bahrain International Airshow 2024.
The agreement's scope is to upgrade surveillance and radar systems at Bahrain International Airport (BIA), a strategic step in Bahrain's plan to enhance the aviation sector’s efficiency in line with international standards.
The minister emphasised the importance of modernising air navigation systems at Bahrain International Airport to align with global aviation advancements, noting the ministry’s commitment to achieving the highest standards of safety and quality in air navigation services.
The agreement will see Leonardo supply, deliver and install cutting-edge radar systems, including the ATCR 33S NG primary surveillance radar and SIR S/I secondary surveillance radar.
These advanced technologies, along with associated equipment, will enhance Bahrain’s air traffic management capabilities by delivering real-time, high-resolution surveillance across the Kingdom’s airspace.
Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa highlighted that this agreement reflects Bahrain’s ongoing commitment to improving air safety and optimising air traffic management through the installation of advanced radar systems, including primary and secondary radar systems, which will provide accurate, real-time monitoring of air traffic in Bahrain’s airspace and at the airport.
As per him, this upgrade aligns with Bahrain’s directive for developing its aviation sector according to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirements, supporting the Kingdom's capacity to accommodate growing air traffic with modern, secure facilities.
As per Bahrain News Agency,
"The enhancements will enable Bahrain to deliver top-tier aviation services within the Bahrain Flight Information Region, meeting global aviation safety standards."
The supply, which extends over three years until early 2027, also includes comprehensive in-service support, ensuring operational effectiveness and sustainability of the radar systems over the contract period.
Leonardo said that its commitment encompasses not only on-site installation but also remote services and support, bringing the highest standards in radar technology to Bahrain’s aviation infrastructure.
Leonardo press release read as,
"This upgrade represents a significant leap forward in Bahrain’s air traffic management capacity, reinforcing its strategic role in Middle Eastern aviation."
"The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, in partnership with Leonardo, is proud to advance Bahrain’s aviation safety, efficiency and technological leadership with this critical infrastructure investment."
