110 Radars for Germany, Initial Batch of 5 for Spain by 2023
Following approval by both German and Spanish governments in recent weeks, Airbus has been awarded a contract for development, supply and integration of 115 CAPTOR-E electronically-scanned (ESCAN) radars for the two nations’ Eurofighter fleets.
This is the largest order to date for the world’s most modern electronically-scanned radar and calls for delivery and integration of 110 CAPTOR-E for the Luftwaffe (Tranche 2 and 3 as well as new-build aircraft) and an initial batch of five for Spain, to be delivered by 2023. Airbus sites in both nations will act as integration hubs, while development and fabrication has been subcontracted to a consortium that includes HENSOLDT and Indra.
“The contract for the CAPTOR-E radar is a main achievement to equip Eurofighter with sensors that ensure todays dominance of the aircraft also in the threat scenarios of tomorrow”, commented Dirk Hoke, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space. “With Eurofighter, Germany and Spain are investing in a strong backbone of European air defence and in the leading project of the European defence industry.”
CAPTOR-E is the world’s most advanced ESCAN array radar for fighter aircraft. The design of the front fuselage airframe allows Eurofighter to deliver the largest ESCAN array for increased detection and tracking ranges, advanced air-to-surface capability and enhanced electronic protection measures. The large antenna surface also allows a wider field of regard than any other platform, pushing the aircraft’s performance and guaranteeing its role as a valuable asset within the Future Combat Aircraft System environment.