Diehl Aerospace is developing a new technology that will enable fighter pilots, including those flying the Eurofighter, to interact directly with drones and other mission-related platforms. The goal is to expand the operational capabilities of fighter aircraft and prepare them for future mission scenarios.
At the core of the concept currently under development is an additional control and display unit (tablet) that can be integrated into the aircraft’s existing onboard systems without critical modifications. In the future, it will provide pilots with a comprehensive, highly detailed operational situation picture, including mission data, flight routes, and live video feeds from unmanned aerial vehicles. With this technology, pilots will be able to receive reconnaissance data in real time, make tactical decisions based on that information, and potentially even control drones directly.
“Our goal is to quickly and pragmatically upgrade existing fighter aircraft to meet new requirements,” says Florian Maier, CEO of Diehl Aerospace. “Our developments are an important contribution to ensuring Europe’s air defense is ready for the future.”
EASY Upgrade, Intuitive Operation
The system is designed to significantly extend existing mission systems and the man-machine interface – the interface between pilot and aircraft – without altering them. As a result, extensive adjustments to the system or new certifications would not be required.
One of the key challenges is visualizing large volumes of data in real time. To address this challenge, Diehl Aerospace is developing powerful algorithms that present complex mission data clearly and intuitively. An initial demonstrator already shows that the concept is technically feasible and can be integrated into existing cockpit environments.
Strengthening Europe’s Technological Sovereignty
Diehl Aerospace, a joint venture between Diehl Aviation and Thales, has decades of experience in the development of avionics, computing, and visualization systems for aircraft such as the Tornado, Eurofighter, Tiger, NH90, and A400M. This expertise is the basis for advancing tomorrow's aircraft.
Through projects like the Eurofighter upgrade, Diehl is significantly expanding the operational flexibility and interoperability of fighter aircraft. This allows parts of the fleet to adapt much more quickly to new mission requirements. Upgrading existing systems is as important as the parallel development of new air defense platforms to meet the requirements of collaborative combat scenarios.
Florian Maier adds: “Europe needs connected, interoperable systems – from today’s platforms and fighter aircraft to the integration of future capabilities. Upgrading existing aircraft is a decisive step to ensuring their long-term operational readiness.”
About Diehl Aviation
Diehl Aviation is a global partner for the aviation industry. The supplier is recognized as a pioneer that drives innovation and shapes the future of flying. Diehl Aviation aims to make travel safer and more comfortable, save valuable resources and present ground-breaking solutions to customers in all business areas. Diehl Aviation (including Diehl Aerospace, a joint venture with Thales) is a leading supplier of avionics, aircraft systems and cabin solutions and currently has over 5,400 employees. The company generates annual revenues of more than 1.2 billion euros. Its customers include leading aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier and Embraer, as well as military partners, manufacturers of eVTOL aircraft, and airlines and operators of commercial and business aircraft worldwide.