Hensoldt's cutting-edge Data Link Network for German NH90 and Tiger helicopters in Timber Express 2023.

During the German Army’s Timber Express 2023 exercise conducted by the German Armed Forces, Hensoldt, a German leading sensor solution provider, achieved a significant milestone by establishing data links that connected various flying platforms and seamlessly integrated them with modern information systems.

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Hensoldt's Optarion mission support system enables reliable communication between the NH90 and Tiger helicopters as well as other platforms such as the Tornado multi-role combat aircraft and the Panzerhaubitze 2000 self-propelled howitzer (Picture source: Bundeswehr)

Utilizing the EUA Optarion mission support system, vital situational data was efficiently exchanged among NH90 and Tiger helicopters, as well as other platforms like the Tornado multi-role combat aircraft and the 2000 self-propelled howitzer, all without necessitating any modifications to the aircraft themselves. Furthermore, this marked the inaugural occasion when the data remained continuously synchronized with the Bundeswehr's newly implemented command information system.

Alex Irmscher, the program manager for ground stations at Hensoldt, emphasized: "With the mission support system, we are capable of integrating both existing and new platforms into the armed forces' digital command and control network, all without requiring any alterations to the aircraft. We maintain an ongoing collaboration with the Army Air Corps and the German Air Force, striving to advance command and control capabilities in the realm of airborne systems and firmly establish them in operational scenarios during exercises."

The EUA Optarion demonstrated its value for the third time during Timber Express 2023, serving as a critical link between reconnaissance and operational components, facilitating the digital transmission of essential data throughout the sensor-to-effector chain. This interaction lays the foundation for efficient command and control processes and the deployment of armed forces within an interoperable information and communication network.

What are network-enabled operations?

The nature of warfare has evolved significantly over time. Historically, conflicts were characterized by isolated combat actions confined to specific locations. However, in today's world, modern armed forces confront more intricate and widespread threats across multiple domains, including land, air, sea, space, and cyberspace. Network-enabled operations serve as the solution to address these complex challenges.

The core concept of network-enabled operations revolves around harnessing the potential of information technology to enhance military effectiveness and efficiency. This is accomplished by establishing interconnected systems that link reconnaissance, command and control, and weapon systems, as well as facilitating cross-service coordination among land, air, sea, and cyber units. This networking capability overcomes previous limitations in terms of range, enabling faster responses and greater precision. The use of digital data transfer ensures the swift and high-quality distribution of information.

The significance of data links

Central to this concept are military data links, which serve as critical connections between various units. Employing military data links offers numerous advantages for network-enabled operations. These links facilitate the exchange of essential information such as situational awareness, target acquisition data, orders, and more. The ultimate goal is to optimize the deployment of military forces.

A comprehensive approach to reconnaissance and command and control enables the optimal utilization of weaponry. Military targets are assigned to the weapon systems that are most likely to achieve success under specific conditions. For example, ground targets could be allocated to a Eurofighter, a Tornado aircraft, an armored self-propelled howitzer, a naval vessel, or any other suitable weapon system. Thanks to data links, the system responsible for reconnaissance need not necessarily be the one engaging the target, ensuring a more agile and effective military response.