• The FAA has awarded contracts to RTX and Indra to replace 612 radar systems.
• The existing radar network dates back to the 1980s and has exceeded its intended service life.
• Replacements are expected to be installed by summer 2028.
• The effort is part of a broader air traffic control overhaul.

The FAA's decision to replace aging radar systems may signal a shift towards prioritizing long-term modernization over short-term maintenance, which could improve the reliability and safety of the air traffic control network. This move suggests the agency is taking steps to address growing operational and political pressure, and may indicate a commitment to investing in critical infrastructure.