HENSOLDT Facilitates Advanced Connectivity in Germany’s "Timber Express 2023" Exercise

During the ongoing "Timber Express 2023" exercise conducted by the German Armed Forces, sensor solution provider HENSOLDT connected multiple flying platforms through a data link, integrating them into modern information systems.

Using the EUA OPTARION mission support system, situational information was efficiently communicated between NH90 and TIGER helicopters, as well as other platforms including the Tornado multi-role combat aircraft and the 2000 self-propelled howitzer. Notably, these connections were established without any modifications to the aircraft.

For the first time, the data was also continuously synchronized with the Bundeswehr's new command information system, HENSOLDT said in a statement.

Alex Irmscher, the program manager for ground stations at HENSOLDT, highlighted the system's versatility, stating, "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." Ongoing collaboration with the Army Air Corps and the German Air Force aims to further enhance command and control capabilities in the realm of airborne systems.

The EUA OPTARION system's effectiveness was demonstrated for the third time during "Timber Express 2023," serving as a critical link between reconnaissance and operational elements. The system facilitated the digital transmission of relevant data along the sensor-to-effector chain, underlining its role in efficient command and control processes and the deployment of armed forces within an interoperable information and communication network.