Sensor Suite Enters Phase 1B Development Process

FCMS (a German consortium of Hensoldt, Diehl Defence, ESG and Rohde & Schwarz), Indra and Thales have launched Phase 1B development for the networked and distributed sensors, defensive aids and attack systems (NSDAS) component of the Future Combat Air system (FCAS), the companies announced on 28 March.

The development will involve new generation sensors technology ‘bricks’ and end-to-end design, with increased performance and capabilities, resulting in air superiority by boosting sensor contribution, situational awareness, firepower and survivability, within a collaborative system architecture. The current plan is for initiation of a wide range of ambitious functional, algorithmic and technological developments, consolidating definition and architecture of the networked suite as well as the critical components/building blocks of the required RF and optronics sensors. In order to support the 2040 initial operational capability target for the next-generation weapon system (NGWS – the potentially aircraft component of the FCAS programme), the development phase is expected to start in 2028.

The main paradigm shift in the programme is the native implementation of a ‘system of systems’ approach at all NGWS levels. With specific regard to sensors, NSDAS implements relevant features based on the disruptive cross-platform collaborative approach. A strong industrial and national joint effort will be the cornerstone of success for achieving the ambitious NGWS goals, with the platform’s superiority depending largely on the ability of its sensors network to gather, process, and distribute information.