The OPTARION mission support system has been successfully used and tested during the exercise

HENSOLDT has connected several flying platforms via data link and networked them with modern information systems in the context of the German Armed Forces’ “Timber Express 2023” exercise through its EUA OPTARION mission support system.

Using the EUA OPTARION mission support system, situational information could be reliably communicated between the NH90 and TIGER helicopters and other platforms, such as the Tornado multi-role combat aircraft and the 2000 self-propelled howitzer, without any changes to the aircraft, the company said.

The mission support system links reconnaissance and operational elements; therefore, relevant data could be communicated digitally along the sensor-to-effector chain. This interaction forms the basis for efficient command and control and the deployment of armed forces in an interoperable information and communication network. This is the first time EUA OPTARION was successfully demonstrated.

The data was continuously synchronised with the Bundeswehr’s new command information system for the first time.

“With the mission support system, we are able to integrate both existing and new platforms into the armed forces’ digital command and control network without any changes to the aircraft,” said Alex Irmscher, programme manager for ground stations at HENSOLDT. “We are working continuously with the Army Air Corps and the German Air Force to further advance command and control capabilities in the area of airborne systems and anchor them operationally alongside exercises.”