Russian cruise ships MS-21 and SSJ are being equipped with the first versions of an internal air collision avoidance system (SPSV), a Russian analogue of the American TCAS. This update comes from an interview with RT in which Navigator JSC technical director Sergey Chanushkin explained the progress. Experts say the development signals a shift toward replacing foreign onboard equipment in civil aircraft with domestically produced systems, marking a significant step for the local aerospace industry.
The system is currently undergoing installation on the Sukhoi Superjet and the MS-21. Four SPSV units have already been shipped for the Sukhoi Superjet, with two of them now undergoing installation on a flying example of the aircraft. Chanushkin noted that in August this year four SPSVs were expected to be delivered to the MS-21 manufacturer, underscoring the accelerated pace of integration for domestic aviation platforms.
Before conducting flight trials, SPSVs will be tested on an advanced ground-based test rig referred to as the electronic bird. This semi-natural test complex is designed to validate how the onboard system interfaces with other aircraft devices, ensuring seamless integration and reliable performance in real-world conditions.
The SPSV functions by informing the aircraft’s autopilot to execute collision avoidance maneuvers when a potential threat is detected. The system operates in passive mode to monitor weather and features an active antenna that transmits data about its location to nearby aircraft. In addition, the SPSV includes capabilities for recognizing terrain contours to aid situational awareness during flight operations.