but I remember the number 1 rule was that every ATC station had to be able to communicate seamlessly with every other ATC station in real time. No clue whether some airports getting upgraded to 'Next Gen' would have any impact there since we didn't get the work. I think we all agree as tax payers and travelers that the important thing is that they get this right and build something that will last decades. I am still in software development (until that glorious day in 2-4 years when I can retire) and we pretty much demand that every software class that is written can be replaced instantaneously without impact to the global mission. Unfortunately ATC hardware and software is between 25-40 years old ... much like Belichick's girlfriends.