"The integrated automated radar system will be finalized by 2010," Maj. Gen. Anatoly Boyarintsev said, adding that it will integrate the technical and financial capacities of all Russian agencies that have radar facilities.
He said about 4.5 billion rubles ($170 million) has been earmarked for the program, which was launched in 2006 to put in place a national airspace reconnaissance and control system.
He said the system will enable the Defense Ministry to address air defense tasks more effectively, while civilian agencies will have a better handle on air traffic.
"This integration will enhance the safety of flights overall," the general said.
Gen. Boyarintsev also said the Radiotechnical Troops, a branch of the Russian Air Force, will receive a new type of radar to be used in mountainous terrain in early 2008.
He also said a number of modern mobile radar stations will be adopted for service soon. Taking minutes to deploy, they greatly enhance combat effectiveness and survivability.
