Eurofighter's Electronic Combat Version Development by Airbus Gets Green Light

The Eurofighter EK (Electronic Combat) program is on the horizon, marking a significant step following the recent endorsement by the German budget committee. Airbus is poised to outfit 15 German Eurofighters for electronic combat capabilities, incorporating a transmitter location system and self-protection technology from Saab, alongside the inclusion of "AARGM" anti-radar missiles sourced from American firm Northrop Grumman. The envisaged goal for the Eurofighter EK is to achieve NATO certification by 2030, heralding the replacement of the Tornado in the critical SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defence) role.

"Electronic warfare and reconnaissance stand as pivotal requirements for NATO: ongoing conflicts and the prevailing security landscape underscore the indispensability of these capabilities," remarked Michael Schöllhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space. "The decision by the German government to integrate electronic warfare as a crucial facet within the Eurofighter's capabilities is a substantial stride. EK will augment this vital capability within the already expansive operational spectrum of the Eurofighter, fortifying European sovereignty and autonomy."

With the resounding parliamentary approval from the Budget Committee, the Eurofighter has now been officially designated as the successor to the Tornado ECR (Electronic Combat/Reconnaissance). Airbus eagerly anticipates the formal order to incorporate the specified technical solutions into the Eurofighter. The forthcoming contract between Eurofighter GmbH, as the prime contractor, and NETMA (NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency) is slated for signing before year-end.

Leveraging Saab’s transmitter location system and the Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM) by Northrop Grumman, the Eurofighter EK is primed to identify, localize, and neutralize anti-aircraft radar systems. Furthermore, the Saab solution integrates jammers enhancing the Eurofighter's self-defense capabilities. Notably, the Eurofighter EK incorporates technologies developed by small and medium-sized enterprises alongside a start-up. Among these advancements is an AI solution enabling onboard radar data analysis for swift and precise self-protection measures.

At present, Airbus is collaborating closely with the BAAINBw procurement office, the German Air Force, and the Bundeswehr Aviation Office to craft a detailed schedule for implementing the selected EK solutions across the 15 Eurofighters.