The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has selected Thales to modernise Singapore’s Air Traffic Management System (ATMS) with the deployment of the next-generation NexGen platform, designed to enhance safety, efficiency and sustainability across one of Asia’s busiest airspaces.
Scheduled to become operational by 2030, NexGen will replace the existing LORADS III system with Thales’ TopSky – ATC One solution and will include the deployment of advanced air traffic control radars. The system will enable controllers to manage up to one million aircraft movements annually while operating with enhanced decision-support capabilities.
Powered by artificial intelligence and advanced cybersecurity technologies, NexGen provides an integrated and highly automated air traffic management environment designed to improve controller decision-making, optimise flight operations and strengthen aviation safety.
At the core of the system, TopSky – ATC One will provide real-time decision-support tools, streamlined workflows and an intuitive human-machine interface for air traffic controllers. The platform’s AI-powered sequencing capability, through TopSky – Sequencer, will optimise aircraft arrival and departure flows, helping reduce delays, fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
The open-architecture system is designed for future scalability, enabling upgrades and integration with third-party technologies as aviation requirements continue to evolve. NexGen will also comply with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and Singapore’s cybersecurity requirements.
As part of the programme, Thales will deploy two next-generation air traffic control radars to provide continuous 24/7 aircraft detection, including in challenging weather conditions. Integrated into the NexGen architecture, these surveillance systems will enhance situational awareness and provide controllers with accurate operational data.
The project also includes skills transfer initiatives, including the assignment of a CAAS team within Thales’ project office in France, along with additional localisation efforts in Singapore.
“We are delighted to continue our long-standing partnership with CAAS on such an ambitious and crucial project for Singapore. NexGen marks a new chapter in the evolution of air traffic management in Singapore. Thales’ significant installed base, combined with the experience gained alongside CAAS in delivering major projects such as LORADS III, has allowed us to test, co-innovate, and develop future-oriented solutions that will help ensure safe and efficient air traffic management for years to come,” said Pascale Sourisse, Managing Director, International Development, Thales.
The NexGen programme represents a major step in Singapore’s efforts to build a smarter, more resilient and future-ready aviation ecosystem.
