Hensoldt develops demonstrator SIGINT pod for Eurodrone
Hensoldt has already tested a communications intelligence demonstrator on a Learjet test aircraft. (Photo: GFD)
The company has already demonstrated its C-ESM capabilities in ground and flight tests.
Hensoldt is developing sensor equipment that can be integrated into a pod, giving the Eurodrone signals intelligence (SIGINT) capability.
The SIGINT technology will utilise digitation advancements, including electronic beam steering and metallic 3D printing, already used on the company's Kalaetron product line.
A contract for implementation and testing of a SIGINT demonstrator worth €15 million ($16.3 million) has been awarded by the German BAAINBw procurement agency.
As part of the contract, Hensoldt is developing a system architecture for integrating SIGINT capability into the Eurodrone’s mission system.
Hensoldt Spectrum Dominance & Airborne Solutions Division head Christoph Ruffner said: ‘From our experience with other SIGINT projects and our own technology programmes, we are in a position to offer a flexible SIGINT solution for the Eurodrone that can be integrated into a pod, but can also be used networked with other platforms.’
The German Armed Forces already use the Kalaetron product family in self-protection and SIGINT systems.
Key elements of the system include a digitised broadband receiver, an electronically controllable antenna, and a condensed structure of electronic components.
Hensoldt said these combinations, in concert, allowed for SIGINT equipment to be integrated into a compact pod that can be easily deployed on flying platforms.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Babcock and KAI to collaborate on training and air base support]()
Babcock and KAI to collaborate on training and air base support
The two companies will focus on military training, support and engineering opportunities across central, eastern and southern Europe.
-
![NSPA and Royal Netherlands Air Force sign LoI on MRTT training integration]()
NSPA and Royal Netherlands Air Force sign LoI on MRTT training integration
The Letter of Intent (LoI) will allow for the integration of training of the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tank Transport (MRTT) fleet between the the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) and other groups.
-
![Boeing’s orderbook boosted with new US Air Force contracts]()
Boeing’s orderbook boosted with new US Air Force contracts
Recent orders for the Boeing KC-46A tanker for the US Air Force (USAF) and engineering support for the Japan Air Self-Defence Force give a boost to the US manufacturer’s orderbook.
-
![Turkey scales back F-16 deal while US shifts position on F-35s, minister claims]()
Turkey scales back F-16 deal while US shifts position on F-35s, minister claims
Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler gave updates on the country’s F-16 and Eurofighter acquisitions in Parliament, while signalling the US could reinstate Turkey into its F-35 programme.
-
![L3Harris wins $1 billion communications system contract from US Navy]()
L3Harris wins $1 billion communications system contract from US Navy
The company will deliver its Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System Terminal (MIDS JTRS) to the US over the next five years.
