Airbus finishes pilot phase of FCAS innovation initiative
Projects included a secure combat cloud demonstrator, real-time AI for analysing sensor emissions, and a means of launching UAVs from the A400M
Airbus has concluded the pilot phase of an initiative to involve German start-ups, SMEs and research institutes in development of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS).
Innovations for FCAS (I4 FCAS) was launched in April 2020 with funding from the German MoD. During the pilot phase, 18 participants worked on 14 projects covering the gamut of FCAS elements.
In particular, Airbus CyberSecurity worked with Kernkonzept to develop a secure combat cloud demonstrator and Hellsicht developed a demonstrator system applying AI to RF analysis. Hellsicht trained its algorithms on Airbus-provided datasets, allowing for real-time ‘fingerprinting’ of radars and other emitters.
Airbus also worked with Geradts and SFL, with support from German flight laboratory DLR, on creating a system to launch a UAV from an A400M transport aircraft. An agile design and development approach allowed for rapid prototyping and flight readiness in only six months.
Dirk Hoke, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, said: ‘It is our ambition to continue the initiative in 2021 and beyond, and make it a cornerstone of our FCAS innovation strategy.’
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
You may also like
More from Air Warfare
-
![The potential impact of US tariffs on the F-35A]()
The potential impact of US tariffs on the F-35A
The Trump administration’s proposed tariffs have raised questions on the desirability and feasibility of the F-35A for key US allies including Canada and Switzerland. With combined orders amounting to 126 units, both nations undertook reviews of their ongoing fighter programmes.
-
![AUSA 2025: US Army and Bell squeeze MV-75 programme]()
AUSA 2025: US Army and Bell squeeze MV-75 programme
The MV-75, previously V-280, was originally designed as an assault aircraft which would replace some of the Black Hawk helicopters and add speed as a tilt-rotor platform. It is now envisioned to add a greater multirole capability reminiscent of the Black Hawk fleet.
-
![India elevates defence systems to boost mountain surveillance]()
India elevates defence systems to boost mountain surveillance
India has strengthened its focus on terrain-adaptive intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance following recent incursions and drone activity along the country’s northern borders.
-
![Saab receives order to continue future fighter concept studies out to 2027]()
Saab receives order to continue future fighter concept studies out to 2027
The order from the FMV is an extension of the original contract signed in March 2024 and covers exploration of both crewed and uncrewed platforms.
-
![AUSA 2025: GA-ASI and Hanwha to produce Gray Eagle STOL in South Korea]()
AUSA 2025: GA-ASI and Hanwha to produce Gray Eagle STOL in South Korea
The Gray Eagle STOL will be made available to several international militaries, with initial customer delivery planned for 2028.
