Garmin unveils GDM 4500 and GDM 450R, advanced distance measuring equipment (DME) for general aviation, turbine aircraft, and helicopters, modernizing in-flight navigation.
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| Garmin reveals new DME solutions for general and turbine aviation, allowing pilots to track multiple distances simultaneously with advanced flight deck integration. Image: Garmin |
Olathe, Kansas, USA – July 17, 2025:
Garmin, a global leader in aviation technology, has unveiled two new Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) products — the GDM 4500 and GDM 450R — aimed at modernizing navigation systems in both general aviation and turbine aircraft.
Announced on July 16, the two remote-mounted DME radios are designed to provide precise slant-range distance measurements, integrated with Garmin flight decks and TXi™ displays. These advanced systems allow pilots to track two DME stations simultaneously, with the added ability for compatible Garmin avionics to scan up to three additional DME frequencies. This multi-channel capability enhances DME-DME Area Navigation (RNAV), giving pilots more options for accurate, ground-based positioning.
The GDM 450R, tailored for Part 23 general aviation aircraft, supports legacy navigation systems and includes features such as DME hold and Free Scan capability. Pilots can maintain a continuous distance readout even when the NAV radio is tuned to a new frequency, while optional features enable automatic scanning of additional DME channels. This ensures improved navigation reliability in complex airspace.
For turbine aircraft and helicopters, Garmin offers the GDM 4500, which meets higher environmental standards and supports broader system integration through ARINC 429. This version includes built-in Free Scan and DME-DME navigation capabilities, allowing seamless use with both Garmin and select third-party flight management systems.
Commenting on the launch, Carl Wolf, Garmin’s Vice President of Aviation Sales, Marketing, Programs & Support, stated, “Given the increased interest among aircraft owners for alternative navigation sources, we are excited to now offer a ground-based DME solution. While DME technology has been available for decades, these new Garmin solutions will help modernize the capabilities on many aircraft, and we look forward to seeing pilots leverage these features around the world.”
Garmin’s latest release aligns with its ongoing commitment to advancing flight safety and innovation. The company, already renowned for receiving the Robert J. Collier Trophy for developing Garmin Autoland — the first certified autonomous aircraft landing system — continues to set benchmarks in avionics.
With the introduction of the GDM 4500 and 450R, Garmin offers a cost-effective, flexible upgrade path for aircraft owners seeking improved navigation capabilities without a complete avionics overhaul. These products further cement Garmin’s role as a pioneer in delivering practical, cutting-edge solutions across general aviation, rotorcraft, and business aircraft segments.