Airbus Tests Eurofighter Radar on A320 Airliner

Airbus conducted the maiden flight of a modified A320 ATRA (Advanced Technology Research Aircraft) on January 21 at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Braunschweig, Germany.

The aircraft, featuring a Eurofighter jet nose, is designed to serve as a flying test platform for the next-generation AESA-MK1 radar.

The A320 ATRA, a test aircraft, underwent modifications to accommodate the Eurofighter’s nose structure. Engineers from Airbus Defence and Space collaborated with Airbus Commercial Aircraft to design a new front section for the A320, ensuring compatibility with the AESA radar system. Structural reinforcements and type-certification-compliant procedures were employed to enable the aircraft to safely conduct extended flight tests.

The AESA-MK1 radar, an Active Electronically Scanned Array system, is expected to enhance the Eurofighter’s performance in air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, as well as electronic warfare capabilities. According to Airbus E-Scan radar project manager Thomas Hirsch, the choice of the A320 platform over the Eurofighter simplifies the testing process. “The A320 ATRA can stay airborne longer and requires a shorter clearance process than the Eurofighter,” he explained.

This extended flight duration enables more comprehensive radar testing under real-world conditions. Additionally, the A320 provides ample space for specialized equipment, including a Eurofighter avionics test rig, cooling systems, and power infrastructure. These features allow for efficient and prolonged experimentation, expediting the radar development timeline.

The AESA-MK1 radar will eventually be integrated into the latest versions of the Eurofighter, such as the Spanish “Halcón I” and German “Quadriga” variants. These upgrades aim to improve the fighter jet’s operational versatility and electronic warfare capabilities, reinforcing its position in modern air combat scenarios.

Airbus’s approach highlights a collaborative effort with the German Armed Forces and the DLR to advance defense technology. By using the A320 ATRA as a cost-effective and efficient test platform, Airbus is accelerating the path to operational readiness for the Eurofighter’s radar system.