Munich, 29 November 2023 – The German Budget Committee has officially approved the enhancement of the Eurofighter with electronic combat capabilities. Airbus will retrofit 15 German Eurofighters with advanced electronic combat systems, including a transmitter location and self-protection system from Saab, coupled with the AARGM (Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile) from Northrop Grumman. This new variant, designated Eurofighter EK, aims for NATO certification by 2030 and will take over the Suppression of Enemy Air Defence (SEAD) role previously held by the Tornado.
Michael Schöllhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized the significance of this development: “Electronic warfare and reconnaissance are an important NATO requirement; current conflicts and the present security situation underscore the critical need for these capabilities. The German government’s decision to integrate electronic warfare capabilities into the Eurofighter’s portfolio is a pivotal step. The EK variant will enhance the operational spectrum of the Eurofighter while bolstering European sovereignty and autonomy.”
With the parliamentary nod secured, the Eurofighter is now officially positioned as the successor to the Tornado ECR (Electronic Combat/Reconnaissance). Airbus is poised to receive the formal order to start the integration of the selected technologies into the Eurofighter. A contract between Eurofighter GmbH, the prime contractor, and the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) is expected to be finalized by year-end.
The inclusion of Saab’s transmitter location system and Northrop Grumman’s AARGM will empower the Eurofighter EK to effectively detect, localize, and neutralize anti-aircraft radar systems. Saab’s technology also provides advanced jamming capabilities, enhancing the Eurofighter’s self-protection measures. Moreover, the Eurofighter EK will leverage cutting-edge technologies developed by small to medium-sized enterprises, including an AI-driven solution capable of on-board radar data analysis to swiftly identify precise self-protection tactics.
Airbus is actively collaborating with the BAAINBw procurement office, the German Air Force, and the Bundeswehr Aviation Office to establish a comprehensive timeline for the implementation of the EK solutions into 15 Eurofighters.
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Source: Airbus Defence and Space (2023-11-29)
