- Thales will upgrade the Philippine Air Traffic Management (ATM) solution, providing new software functionalities, modern hardware architecture and advanced cybersecurity capabilities, to ensure resilience against evolving digital and operational threats.
- This project will equip the Philippines with one of Asia’s most modern and cybersecure ATM systems – a long-term investment that will enhance the travel experience of millions of passengers.
- This upgraded system will reinforce aviation safety, strengthen operational continuity, and support the country’s long-term air traffic growth.
This contract to upgrade Philippine Air Traffic Management is a key component of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines’ (CAAP) strategic modernization programme. Under this agreement, Thales will upgrade the existing hardware and software infrastructure and integrate new functionalities – including advanced cybersecurity features – to ensure the system remains resilient against evolving digital and operational threats.
A Disaster Recovery System (DRS) is included in the contract to provide a robust first layer back-up protection to ensure continuity of critical operations in the event of a main system failure. Together, these enhancements will deliver a world-class air traffic management system that meets ICAO and the highest industry standards.
The initial phase of the implementation will mark a major milestone in strengthening operational continuity and enhancing the safety of the Philippine airspace. Once all upgrade phases are finalised, by early 2027, CAAP will operate a state-of-the-art ATM system, fully aligned with the latest international standards and technological benchmarks. “This modernisation project is a pivotal step in future proofing Philippine aviation. Through our partnership with Thales, we are ensuring that our air traffic management system exceeds international standards, providing greater safety, resilience, and operational continuity. This upgrade will prepare our airspace to handle growing air traffic demands and secure the long-term efficiency of aviation in the Philippines,” Retired Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.
“This modernisation is not just a technical upgrade — it is an investment in the future of Philippine aviation. By strengthening resilience and embracing the latest digital innovations, CAAP is preparing the country’s airspace for the demands of a rapidly growing region. We are honoured to support this ambition and to deepen our long-standing partnership with the Asia-Pacific region.” Youzec Kurp, Vice President, Airspace Mobility Solutions, Thales.
About Thales
Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.
The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.
Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.
About Thales in the Philippines
Thales is a global technology leader trusted by governments, institutions, and enterprises to tackle their most demanding challenges. From quantum applications and artificial intelligence to cybersecurity and 6G innovation, our solutions empower critical decisions rooted in human intelligence. Operating at the forefront of defence and security, aerospace and space, cybersecurity and digital identity, we’re driven by a mission to build a future we can all trust.
In the Philippines, Thales has been a trusted partner for over 20 years, supporting key customers across civil aviation, defence, and digital identity & security sectors. From banking and telecommunications to government services, Thales continues to provide solutions in technological advancements that bolster national security and enhance local defence capabilities.