Hensoldt develops demonstrator SIGINT pod for Eurodrone
Hensoldt has already tested a communications intelligence demonstrator on a Learjet test aircraft. (Photo: GFD)
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.
More from Air Warfare
-
Sweden to extend capacity for Gripen fighter jet engine support
The Swedish Armed forces will invest to renovate and expand a GKN-run engine test facility for the Saab Gripen's turbofan powerplants.
-
Turkish Air Force tanker modernisation effort completed ahead of schedule
US contractor Field Aerospace has finished upgrading the Turkish Air Force's Boeing KC-135R tanker fleet flight decks to Block 45 configuration.
-
Iran turns to Russia to modernise fighter jet fleet
As Iranian drones equip Russian forces in ever-increasing numbers, Su-35 fighter jets will soon be heading in the opposite direction as Tehran urgently seeks modern air combat capabilities.
-
Electra develops eSTOL pre-production prototype for US Air Force
The Virginia-based aerospace company has received a strategic funding injection of up to $85m to mature its eSTOL technology for the US Air Force.
-
HAWC missile completes flight trials as focus turns to maturing hypersonic technology
Completion of HAWC flight testing means the US has two viable hypersonic missile designs that can be matured into future programmes of record.