National Airspace System

The National Airspace System (NAS) program, as outlined in Line Item 833020 of the Air Force's FY 2026 budget request, is focused on modernizing and sustaining the Department of Defense (DoD) Air Traffic Control (ATC) infrastructure. The program's overarching goals are to enhance flight safety, ensure interoperability with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), replace aging ATC systems, and provide equivalent service to both military and civilian aircraft. These efforts are intended to reduce flight cancellations, delays, and maintenance costs for DoD operations. The program also supports homeland defense and military support to civil authorities.

NAS ATC Voice Recorder Replacement (VRR) is a key component of the NAS program. Its objective is to replace end-of-life Digital Audio Legal Recorders (DALR) that are no longer supported by the original equipment manufacturer. Recording ATC controller-to-pilot and tower communications is mandatory for accident investigations, near misses, and runway incursions. The replacement recorders are being procured through a fixed-price contract with the FAA, which will also lead Operational Safety, Suitability, and Effectiveness (OSS&E) and lifecycle support. The FY 2026 budget requests funding for recorders, installation, and program support, with a total procurement planned through FY 2030.

NAS ATC Voice Switch Replacement (VSR) aims to replace the legacy Enhanced Terminal Voice Switch (ETVS) systems, which have been in service for over 25 years and are experiencing support and part constraints. The VSR initiative is driven by the DoD Chief Information Officer's mandate to transition to digital Internet Protocol (IP) capability, moving away from analog systems. The FAA is also replacing similar legacy switches, and a joint acquisition strategy is being developed. For FY 2026, the budget includes procurement of initial systems, installation, and program support, paving the way for future larger-scale acquisitions.

Time Division Multi-Plexing (TDM) to Internet Protocol (IP) Migration is another modernization effort aligned with DoD CIO mandates and Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) guidance. This program addresses the telecommunications industry's shift from point-to-point connections to network-based IP connections. While initial program support funds were allocated in FY 2024, ongoing migration activities are now funded through Operations and Maintenance due to their lower unit cost and decentralized management. The TDM to IP migration ensures that USAF ATC systems remain compatible with DISA-approved transport layers and the FAA Telecommunications Infrastructure.

The NAS program is managed by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) at Tinker Air Force Base, with procurement contracts awarded to vendors such as Nice Systems Inc. for the VRR units. The program is structured to provide recurring equipment costs, installation, and direct mission support. Procurement lead times and production schedules are carefully planned to meet operational needs. For the VSR, the contractor is yet to be determined, but the acquisition will follow a similar fixed-price contract approach.

Justification for these investments is rooted in statutory requirements, including Section 1815 of the FY2008 National Defense Authorization Act, which mandates capabilities for homeland defense, emergency response, and support to civil authorities. The FY 2026 request reflects a reduction in advisory and assistance services to promote efficiency and align with Executive Order 14222, which implements government-wide cost-saving initiatives. The program is designed to benefit both active and reserve components of the Air Force, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve.