 
| In a process begun in the mid-1990s now speeded up by the current government , the Luftwaffe ( German Air Force) is currently adopting its equipment-requirements to reflect current and future needs. The Luftwaffe had to adjust its missions to take account of the possibility of involvement in conflict beyond the borders of Europe. The Luftwaffe aims for the capacity to participate in multi-national joint crisis management operations covering the whole spectrum, from humanitarian aid to collective defence. Priority has been given to the purchase of 180 Eurofighters, representing the largest slice of the German MoD's procurement budget. The introduction of the Eurofighter into the Air Force is due to start in the fourth quarter of 2003. The German Eurofighter programme was given a boost with the first flight of the first German series production Eurofighter (IPA 3 Instrumented Production Aircraft) at the EADS facility this year. The first unit to receive the Eurofighter will be Jagdgeschwader 73 at Laage , currently equipped with F-4F Phantoms and Mig-29s. The Phantoms and Mig-29s will be replaced with the Eurofighter over time. The Mig-29s will be handed over to Poland in 2003, and the Phantoms will be be slowly phased out which began in 2002. |
 |
In the Future there will be five Eurofighter wings ( each equipped with 36 aircraft ) which will be accompanied by 125 Tornados ( down from 267 today ). In contrast to UK and France, the German DOD has so far not discussed a new strike aircraft to replace it's Tornados. Funding for this project might be hard to find after the costly purchase of the Eurofighter. There have been strong suggestions that in the long term (beyond 2020) the Eurofighter will be the air force's single combat aircraft platform. Most of the 275 have gone through an initial upgrade and are now in the process of going through a Mid-Life Improvement (MLI) programme and a New Avionics Structure. |
| During Allied Force, shortcomings became evident especially in relation to Germany's need for a large transport aircraft. In response to this Germany placed on order for 73 A400M Transport aircraft , these will replace the ageing C.160D Transalls. The German government suggests buying only 40 aircraft, a number that could be financed by the £3 Billion already reserved for the A400M. The report goes on to say that 75 aircraft are unnecessary, because they would represent four times the current Luftwaffe airlift capacity. |
 |
| In addition, the German Air Force operates seven Airbus A-310 MRT ( Multi-Role-Transports ), of which four are to be converted to MRTTs (Multi-Role-Tanker-Transports). Also joining the fleet are 66 NH-90 TTHs which will replace the UH-1D Heuy, 24 of the NH-90s will be converted to the CSAR role. Over the next few years, the service will scale down from 437 combat aircraft 302, and from 73 SAM squadrons to 46. Two are Luftwaffe bases will also be shut down, these are part of comprehensive reorganization of the German Armed Forces. |
 Luftwaffe Aircraft :
Fighter/Attack Aircraft :
-Eurofighter
|
|
The four-nation Eurofighter Typhoon is a foreplane delta-wing, beyond-visual-range, close air fighter aircraft with surface attack capability. Eurofighter has 'supercruise' capability: it can fly at sustained speeds of over Mach 1 without the use of afterburner. The EJ200 engine has been developed by Eurojet GmbH. An overall production contract for 620 aircraft was signed in January 1998, with 232 for the UK, 180 for Germany, 121 for Italy and 87 for Spain. The first of these aircraft are planned to enter service with the four participating nations by the end of 2002. Final deliveries are scheduled for 2015.
The direct voice input allows the pilot to carry out mode selection and data entry procedures using voice command.The cockpit has three multifunction, colour, head-down displays (MHDDs), which show the tactical situation, systems status and map displays. The aircraft is equipped with a CAPTOR (ECR 90) multi-mode X-band pulse Doppler radar, developed by the Euroradar consortium. A Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) is mounted on the port side of the fuselage, forward of the windscreen. When used with the radar in the air-to-air role, it functions as an Infrared Search and Track system (IRST), providing passive target detection and tracking. In the air-to-surface role, the FLIR performs target acquisition and identification, as well as providing a night flying aid.
As well as an internally mounted 27mm Mauser gun, the EurofighterTyphoon has 13 hard points for weapon carriage. For air-to-air combat, the standard weapon configuration is four beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAM) on semi-recessed fuselage stations, and two ASRAAM short-range air-to-air missiles on the outer pylons. A mix of up to ten medium- and short-range missiles can be carried. German and Italian Eurofighters will carry the imaging infrared IRIS-T air-to-air missile . Eurofighter can carry a range of air-to-surface weapons. The Eurofighter is equipped with two Eurojet EJ200 engines, each delivering thrust of 90kN in full reheat and 60kN in dry power mode. The first German series production Eurofighter (IPA 3 Instrumented Production Aircraft) took off for a successful Maiden Flight at 03/04/2002 EADS Military Aircraft’s Manching plant and touched the ground again safely. |
-Tornado IDS / ECR / RECCE
| Tornado IDS
Tornado ECR
Tornado RECCE
|
In all the Luftwaffe received 276 Tornados , which can be devided into three different versions. The Tornado IDS version (Interdiction-Strike) which is the main type in service, ECR version ( Electronic Combat & Reconnaissance ) of which some 25 aircraft were delivered and the RECCE version (Reconnaissance).
Most of the approximately 275 Tornados have, in any case, undergone the first stages of an upgrade due to be completed in 2003-2005. As a follow on to a mid 1980s upgrade which was an important step to adopt the aircraft to changing requirements was the German "Tornado First Upgrade" for the fighter-bomber aircraft I DS (Interdiction-Strike). This program of the late 80s led primarily to enhanced electronic warfare (EW) capabilities which included FADEC, AGM-88s and a Mil-1553B databus. Based upon the IDS upgrade, Dasa ( Now EADS ) developed the Tornado ECR for Electronic Combat and Reconnaissance which is operational with the German Air Force (GAF). Today the Tornado ECR is the most advanced and capable tactical fighter for (SEAD) Suppression of Enemy Air Defences and C3I roles.
After that the Luftwaffe initiated a further upgrade for most of it's Tornado IDS fleet ( Similiar to the British Tornado GR.4 mid-life update ). The main element of the upgrade is known as the "Neue Avionikstruktur" (New Avionics Structure) and is already under fleet wide implementation . It consists of upgraded main computer, and conversion of software from Spirit 3 to the ADA computer language to enhance the Tornados computing capacity. The New Avionics Structure is the basis for integrating new weapons ( Taurus Stand-off missile )and sensors in the German Tornados.
Another major element is a Mid-Life Improvement (MLI) programme, comprising of 2 packages, the Kampfwertanpassung ( KMW , Combat Effeciency Enhancement ) and the Kampfwerterhaltung ( KWE, Combat Effiency Upgrade). Their main operational task is to improve weapon systems performance and accuracy while enhancing the aircraft's ability to operate in multi-national force. These two elements should be incorporated in every Tornado airframe by 2005. |
-F-4F Phantom II ICE
|
During the years 1973-1975, the German Luftwaffe received a total of 175 twin-seater Phantom II aircraft, which are in service as fighter aircraft and fighter bombers. Between 2002 and 2012, the present aircraft will be successively replaced by Eurofighters. The severe programme delays with the Eurofighter forced the German Airforce to execute an operational life extension programme for a large portion of the Phantom fleet. The programme was called ICE (Improved Combat Effectiveness), it involved 110 Phantoms and was conducted by DASA ( Now EADS). The modification included the APG-65 radar, the ability to fire the AIM-120 AMRAAM and a new navigation suite that includes GPS The 37 operational Phantoms not part of the upgrade received only a new navigation suite.
In service since 1973, the Phantom equips a total of 6 squadrons, which include a Air Force test centrum and a German Training Centre in Holloman AFB USA. With the ICE upgrade, the F-4F Phantom will remain in the Luftwaffe until at least 2005 when they will be replaced by the Eurofighter. |
-MIG-29 G/GT Fulcrum
| Mig-29A
Mig-29UB
|
The Bundeswehr inherited 20 single-seater and 4 twin-seater MiG-29 aircraft from the former East German forces. After these Fulcrum aircraft had been upgraded to western standards, they received the designations MiG-29G (for Germany) and MiG-29GT (Germany/Trainer). The ' Fulcrum ' squadron based at Laage Air Base is amongst the busiest units in NATO , being officialy NATO assigned and responible for the air-defence of Eastern Germany. It also provides realistic adversary training for NATO pilots in air-air combat exercises.
The Luftwaffe Fulcrums have been upgraded to NATO standards, with modification including of a identification and navigation system as well as engine adjustments to increase life expectancy. Six to Eight Fulcrums have also received a GPS system, and provision for two 1150-litre underwing fuel tanks increasing their range to 3000 km. The German Defence Department recently announced that the 23 Mig-29s currently operated by the German Air Force would be handed over to the Polish Air Force during the first half of 2003. |
TRANSPORT AIRCRAFT :
- Transall C.160D
|
|
The Luftwaffe operates a fleet of around 70 C-160.Ds. The Transall is rapidly reaching the end of it's life after 30 years of operation , these systems are currently undergoing a self-protection system upgrade at Manchning. Which includes a BAE SYSTEMS High Integration Air Data Computer (HIADC), Litton ALR-68 radar warning systems and Rockwell FMS-800 Flight Management and Global Positioning System. The three wings of C.160D Transport aircraft will be consolidated into two from 2008. The German Government will order up to 73 more capable Airbus A400M aircraft when the government approve the order. Twenty-four C.160Ds were modified for special operations.
The C-160 Transall aircraft are twin turboprop transporters in service with the air forces of France, Germany and Turkey. The aircraft is a cantilever high-wing monoplane and is configured for transportation, paratroop drop, electronic surveillance, airborne communications relay and medical evacuation. The main cabin can be fitted to carry 93 troops or up to 68 fully equipped paratroops. For medical evacuation, the cabin can accommodate 62 stretcher patients. |
- A400 Future Large Aircraft?
 |
The A400M (formerly known as the Future Large Aircraft) is a military transporter designed to meet the requirements of the air forces of Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Italy subsequently withdrew from the programme. In December 2001, a formal contract of procurement was signed between Airbus and OCCAR, the European procurements agency for 196 aircraft: Belgium 7, France 50, Germany 73, Luxembourg 1, Portugal 3, Spain 27, Turkey 10 and the UK 25 aircraft. The first aircraft is scheduled to fly in 2006 with entry into service in 2008.
The TP400 engine from the new Turboprop International (TPI) group, be chosen as the A400M powerplant. Germany's decision last November to allocate DM10 billion ($4.4 billion) of funding towards its A400M requirement was crucial to continuation of the A400M program, for which the Luftwaffe is initially the largest customer. Some concern has been expressed, however, at the current shortfall from the DM16.8 billion, which is Germany's full estimated A400M requirement cost. The latter total indicates German estimates of about $104 million for an A400M program unit cost, presumably including spares and technical support. |
- A-310 MRT/T
|
The Airbus A310 MRT for the German Air Force is a joint project of EADS and Lufthansa Technik. The MRT - Multi Role Transport - can fulfil a wide range of different transport tasks with just one aircraft type. The concept is based on conversions of Airbus A310-300 commercial aircraft, which are already in worldwide operation. Standardized kits - including all systems for transport tasks - are used for the conversion in accordance with customer requirements.
The Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) concept provides for the use of the twin-jet A310 as a multi-purpose military transport and tanker. It is planned to enhance the MRT into a Multi Role Tanker Transport for the German Air Force through the installation of a tanker kit. The Luftwaffe has seven A310-304s, of which two are configured for VIP transport and one for passenger transport. The other four are multirole transports (MRT). It is the latter four which will be modified into MRTT's, with the first aircraft scheduled for re-delivery in November 2002. For the air-to-air refuelling (tanker) role, the aircraft is equipped with five centre fuel tanks or Additional Centre Tanks (ACTs), and with hose and drogue pods under the outer wings. The total fuel capacity is up to 96,920 litres (25,605 US gallons), which corresponds to 77,500kg (171,000lb). |
HELICOPTERS :
- UH-1D Huey
 |
The Luftwaffe operates a fleet of 114 hueys. Fifteen are at facilities like technical schools and will never fly again ; the 99 airworthy examples have all undergone a service life extension programme that includes new composite rotor blades. Dornier is responsible for further upgrades to another 24 examples called the flugfahigkeit/Flugsicherheitmassname (NTS/FSM), which give the Huey a night-vision capability for night operations. Also included is a new airframe, better avionics, new VOR/ILS , HF Radio and GPS.
As well as operating alongside the C.160Ds units, the UH-1D serves in SAR and VIP roles. The Huey is scheduled to be replaced by the NH-90 around 2008. |
- NH-90 TTH
 |
The German Air Force is set to receive around 66 NH-90 TTH, The TTH version is primarily conceived for tactical transport of personnel (14-20 troops) and material (more than 2500 kg of cargo), heliborne operations and SAR.
Additional applications include medevac, special operations, electronic warfare, airborne command post, parachuting, VIP transport, flight training.
The NH-90 is expected to replace the Huey around 2008, the Huey will be phased by 66 NH-90s concentrated in a single location. With the arrival of these, the air force will take on a new role : combat search and rescue ( CSAR ). The service is acquiring eight CSAR kits and 24 of its NH-90s will be fitted with this new equipment. The kits involve full night capability, in-flight refueling, installation of air-air and air-to-surface weapons, and an electrical warfare suite. This embryonic CSAR capability will be resident within the NH-90 wing at Holzdorf, and the Luftwaffe is hoping that Holzdorf will become the European CSAR centre. |
Air-Defence :
- Patriot 2 / PAC 3
 |
PATRIOT serves the air threat within the middle and large elevator area for the defense. The improvement of the ability for the defense tactical ballistic missile is initiated at present by re-tooling measures with the ground support equipment as well as by introduction new " hit to kill" missiles of a PAC 3. The target acquisition and target illumination for the missile take place with a radar device with electronic laserbeems . Several air targets can be fought at the same time.
The Luftwaffe is due to acquire 200 examples of the Patriot Advanced Capacity 3 (PAC-3 - it currently only operates the PAC-2 version) and 13 Launching stations modification kits. A 100% offset deal has been negotiated as one of the deal's features. |
Sources :
 |
German Airforce Homepage |
|
Airforce Technology |
|
Eurofighter Homepage
|
| A radical reshaping of the army was completed by the end of 1994, in which the Bundeswehr was adapted to the diminishing threat in Central Europe, the recasting of NATO's force structure, and Germany's 1990 commitments to reduce its force level and armaments. These commitments were embodied in the Treaty on the Final Settlement with Respect to Germany, or, as it is more commonly known, the Two-Plus-Four Treaty signed in September 1990 and the CFE Treaty signed that November. According to these commitments, manpower had to be reduced so that all services could meet the CFE ceiling of 370,000 by December 1994, with a sublimit of 345,000 for the army and air force. The treaty obligations were met successfully, and in early 1995 the Bundesheer amounted to about 255,000 soldiers, of whom about 123,000 were conscripts. The army consists of three corps, under the overall direction of the Army Forces Command. As of 1995, Germany had kept little of the weaponry of the former NVA, giving away many spare parts, destroying huge caches of weapons and ammunition, and selling surplus equipment.In accordance with several international commitments, no nuclear, biological, or chemical weapons are in the German arms inventory.Current planning aims for further manpower cuts. Recent leaks from the Ministry of Defense suggest that within this decade the Bundeswehr shall be reduced to an active strength of 285,000 soldiers (with a mobilization volume of 500,000) |
 |
In future, conscripts will serve for nine months, rather than the present 10, and the number in the army at any time is set to fall from 130,000 to 80,000. And the number of civilian administrators is supposed to go down below 90,000. The future structure of the German Army will focus on a twofold mission:
|
Collective Defense within NATO means that all Army fighting units could be involved including conscripts and reservists.
|
|
Operation other than war ranging from humanitarian relief operations to peace enforcement operations. These mission will be executed by reaction forces, which are manned exclusivly by volunteer soldiers. | |
| For very large scale collective defensive Operations of NATO the German Army will contribute up to five mechanized divisions. These divisions will exist in peacetime but most of them will need reinforcements by reservists for large operations. Main feature of the Bundeswehr since its beginnings has been international cooperation. All German army divisions are working closely together with Allies within five multinational Corps HQ: ACE Rapid Reaction Corps, Eurocorps, V. (US/GE) Corps, 1.(GE/NL) Corps, Multinational Corps North East. The HQ of II. (GE/US) Corps has a specific mission: in addition to be prepared as a Corps HQ for NATO Operations it also will prepare to become a Force HQ for military EU Operations (Petersberg Tasks), and it may serve as a HQ for national tasks. |
 |
| The Equipment of the German Army already consists of very capable and reliable weapons systems e.g. the main battle tank Leopard II or the new artillery gun system Panzerhaubitze 2000 as well as operationally proven UAVs. Further modernization will focus an command, control, communications and intelligence as well as on new systems like the 110 TIGER combat helicopters, the 108 NH 90 utility helicopters which will establish a true air mechanized capability. Also lighter systems like the reconnaissance vehicle FENNEK and the armored transportation vehicle DINGO will improve the capabilities significantly. |
Equipment of the German Army (Heer) :
Armoured Vehicles :
- Leopard 2 A4/A5 MBT
|
Following the cancellation of the German/United States MBT-70 tank, Germany went on to develop the Leopard 2 MBT from 1970, with the first prototypes armed with 105mm and 120mm guns. The 120mm version of the leopard 2 was selected in 1977, with production undertaken by KMW and MaK, and first production vehicles completed in 1979. Since then, over 3,000 have been ordered and production was started again in 1994 for Sweden. After delivery of the last eight batch vehicle, there were 2.125 Leopard 2 A4 in service with the Bundeswehr. The Leopard 2s main armament includes a Rheinmetall 120 mm smooth bore main gun and a 7.62 mm MG-3 air defense machine gun.
Improvement included in the A4 version over the leopard include a ew fire control system was fitted with a digital core to facilitate the use of new ammunition, and to improve the crew's survivability a fire, explosion suppression system developed by Deugra was installed , new Diehl 570FT tracks and Smoke Mortar Launchers. A further Upgrade of the Leopard 2 concluded in the Leopard 2 A5 (Improved Leopard) which has a number of improvements including increased armor protection for the crew and improved command and control system capabilities. 225 Leopard A4s are to upgraded to A5 standard. |
- Leopard 2 A6 EX
|
The German Army is upgrading 225 2A5 tanks to 2A6 configuration, The first of a contracted number of 225 Leopard 2 A6 main battle tanks (first batch) is to handed over to the Army at a roll-out ceremony at Krauss-Maffei Wegmann in Munich on 7 March 2001. The new 120 mm L55 main armament and the new upgraded ammunition LKE 2 DM 53 developed in parallel by Rheinmetall will further enhance the enormous fire power of the Leopard 2.
The Leopard 2 A6 lethality effectiveness is especially due to the Rheinmetall W & M developed smoothbore gun system. Based on the military requirement for firepower enhancement. A 130 cm increase in barrel length plus other modifications resulted in a higher projectile velocity and increased KE-performance. The 120 mm L55 weapon is compatible with the current MBT-types in service throughout NATO, as they can easily be retrofitted. Other Improvements include an auxiliary engine, improved mine protection and an air-conditioning system. |
- Jaguar 2 Tank Destroyer
 |
The Jaguar 2 was developed from the Jaguar 1 as a dedicated Anti-Tank vehicle. A total of 162 were converted to Jaguar 2 standard during 1983-85. Armed with a anti-tank guided weapon (ATGW) launchers. The Jaguar 2 is mainly armed with the TOW anti-tank missile and the TOW 2 missile. Also equipped with a AN/TAS-4 night vision system for night anti-tank operations. |
- Luchs Reconnaissance Vehicle
 |
The Spahpanzer Luchs (8x8) amphibious reconnaissance vehicle was developed by Daimler Benz with Thyssen Henschel, building a total of 408 vehicles for the German Army between 1975 and 1978. An unusual feature of the Luchs is that it has two drivers, one at the front and one at the rear, and can be driven at speeds of up to 90km/h in either direction.
The two man power operated turret is armed with the same 20mm Rheinmetall cannon as is fitted to the Marder 1 infantry combat vehicle used by the German army, with a 7.62mm machine gun mounted on the roof. The 20 mm cannon is not stabilised. More recently, thermal night vision equipment has been fitted to the turret, this resulted in the Luchs A2. Standard equipemt includes an NBC protection system, a preheater, power steering on all eight wheels and run flat tyres. |
- Fennek Reconnaissance Vehicle
|
The Fennek Armed Reconnaissance Vehicle, produced by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) of Kassel, Germany and SP Aerospace and Vehicle Systems B.V. of The Netherlands has been developed for the Dutch and German Armies. The prototype vehicle completed field trials in April 2000. In December 2001, a contract was signed for the combined procurement of 612. 178 reconnaissance and 24 combat engineer versions for the German Army. Deliveries are scheduled between 2003 and 2007. The vehicles will replace the Luchs ARVs in the German Army.
The Fennek is a light armoured 4WD reconnaissance vehicle, operated by a three-man crew and deployed in units of two vehicles. A scout party equipped with this vehicle is able to operate independently for a period of up to five days.The German vehicles will be armed with a 40mm automatic grenade launcher. |
- Marder 1 A3 IFV
 |
The Marder 1 infantry combat vehicle was developed for the German Army from the late 1950s, with production being undertaken from 1970 to 1975 by the now Thyssen Henschel and MaK companies. Since it first entered service, it has been constantly upgraded, with the latest version known as the Marder 1A3, and featuring additional hull and turret armour, as well as rearranged roof hatches, upgraded suspension, a new heating system and revised stowage.
The two man power operated turret is armed with the same 20mm Rheinmetall canon as is fitted to the Luchs vehicles used by the German Army, with a 7.62mm machine gun being mounted co-axially. The 20mm cannon is not stabilised. Some vehicles have a Milan anti-tank system mounted on the turret. The Marder 1 is not amphibious , although with preparations it can ford to a depth of 2m. Standard equipment includes a NBS system, a crew compartment heater and passive night vision equipment. |
- Fuchs Transportpanzer 1 (TPz 1) APC
|
The Henschel Defense Systems Transportpanzer 1 (Fuchs) was originally developed in the 1960s to meet German Army requirements. Some 996 vehicles were produced between 1979 and 1986. The basic vehicle is fully amphibious with two propellers mounted on either side at the rear. Standard equipment includes an NBC protection system and passive night vision equipment.
An upgraded version of the Fuchs has been fielded for use in the former Yugoslavia with a higher level of armour protection and protection for the 7.62mm machine gun mounted over the forward part of the roof. Depending on the vehicle version, it is possible to transport 10 additional men and the 2-man-crew. |
- M113G
 |
The first M113 was delivered to the German Army in 1962 with some 8,000 examples delivered. Today some 3,300 M113s remain in different versions. M113s who were built in Germany to meet the specific demands of the German Army ( eg. weapons,tracks,radio,..) became known as the M113G (Germany). In 1974 a diesel engine was placed in the M113G with some small other modifications and became the M113 A1 G.
Later on the M113 became the basis for the Lance rocket system and M548 Skorpion Mine layer. Future Modifications on the M113G resulted in the M113 G2 and M113 G3 who's aim was to extend their operational lives well into the 21st Century with new engines and fuel tanks. |
- Dingo APC
|
The Dingo APCV offers its occupants a high level of protection against terrorist attacks and mines. In addition to high all-round protection against all types of hand-held weapons, a special mine de-flector system provides a degree of crew protection against anti-personnel and anti-tank mines so far unparalleled in this class of vehicles. The German Army DINGO´s armament is a 7.62 mm machine gun. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with an NBC protection system, an air conditioning system, auxiliary heating, ABS, a reversing camera, GPS navigation as well as a modern radio and an infantry tank telephone system. The DINGO has already been deployed with the German peacekeeping units for patrol and transport tasks in Kosovo, Macedonia since December 2000 and most recently in Afghanistan and has been extraordinarily successful.
Krauss-Maffei Wegmann has now delivered the first batch of 56 Dingo 1 All Protect Vehicles (APVs) to the German Army and these have already been deployed. The German Army has ordered a further 91 Dingo 1 APVs in two batches and these will be delivered from the Krauss-Maffei Wegmann Munich production line between July 2002 and early 2003. These are based on the Mercedes-Benz UNIMOG U1550L (4 x 4) chassis with a wheelbase of 3.25m. |
- Multi-role Armoured Vehicle GTK
 |
The governments of the UK and Germany signed a contract in November 1999 for the collaborative development and initial production of the family of next generation armoured utility vehicles. The programme is known as the MRAV Multi Role Armoured Vehicle (MRAV) in the UK, the Gepanzertes Transport-Kraftfahrzeug (GTK) in Germany. The total requirement is expected to be more than 2000 vehicles.
At the 11th of July 2002 ARTEC - being the Industrial Consortium vested in Munich and representing Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, Rheinmetall Landsysteme both from Germany, Alvis from the United Kingdom and Stork from the Netherlands - presented the first 8X8 wheeled vehicle prototype in the GTK/MRAV/PWV Programme to the Organisation Conjoint de Coopération en matière d´Armament “OCCAR”. The presentation of the first Prototype reflects progress made since the start of the GTK/MRAV/PWV Programme at November 1999 (between Germany and the United Kingdom only) and since the official entrance of The Netherlands in February 2001. The UK, Germany and the Netherlands will each receive four prototypes and a first batch of 200 vehicles, with deliveries to begin in 2006. With the successful integration of the first Prototype the GTK/MRAV/PWV Programme has moved into the next Programme phase of vehicle qualification. |
- Wiesel 1 MK 20/TOW
|
Manufactured by Rheinmetall Landsysteme, the WIESEL 1 was first fielded by the Bundeswehr in 1990 in two versions, the TOW and the MK 20. A total of 345 vehicles were built between 1989 and 1992. The WIESEL 1 is based on a Porsche concept. Rheinmetall Landsysteme was general contractor for the production and delivery of both WIESEL 1 versions to the German Airborne Brigades. Fire power, mobility and excellent means of survival characterise the WIESEL 1, as well as airtransportability, flexibility and quick operational readiness. In addition, it has good all-round observation and target reconnaissance facilities and night combat ability.
The TOW version has a crew of three men and, due to its anti-tank missile system, can hit targets accurately at distances of up to 3,750 m. Operated by a crew of two men, the MK 20 version can hit targets at a distance of more than 1,000 m effectively. The WIESEL 1 MK 20 and TOW were successfully deployed in UN, IFOR, SFOR and KFOR missions. The first of thirty WIESEL 1 MK vehicles equipped with an additional night vision module were officially handed over to the Bundeswehr at a roll-out ceremony on February 21, 2002. The widening mission spectrum of the vehicle resulted in calls to re-equip the WIESEL 1 MK with an improved night-vision and night-fighting capability. |
- Wiesel 2
|
The WIESEL 2 concept was created and introduced by Rheinmetall Landsysteme. The company developed the WIESEL 2 based on their experiences with the WIESEL 1 and according to the requirement for more room and loading capacity, due to the army‘s extended range of missions, i.e. in rapid reaction and peacekeeping missions. The integrated NBC system and the combined cooling and heating system in the crew compartment provide better means of survival for vehicle and crew. The larger interior of the WIESEL 2 enables the transport of up to seven men in the Armoured Personnel Carrier version, whereas either 21 missiles TOW, 50 mortar grenades cal. 55 mm or ammunition boxes can be transported in the Ammunition Carrier.
The first production Wiesel 2 application is for the STN ATLAS Elektronik ATLAS Short-Range Air-Defence System now in production for the German Army. The contract for the procurement of 15 (plus 5 as option) WIESEL 2 Ambulance Vehicles has been signed in Koblenz on September 18, 2001, by the German Procurement Authorities. |
- BV 206S
 |
Following extensive trials with four vehicles, the German Army has ordered 31 ambulance versions of the Bv 206S armoured all-terrain vehicle. The order was placed by German company Rheinmetall Landsysteme on behalf of the German Government. First deliveries will be made in the first quarter of 2003. It is expected that funding permitting, the German Army will place orders for additional quantities of more specialised versions of the vehicle. The Bv 206S is an armoured version of the Bv 206, of which about 11,000 have been built for the home and export markets. The Bv 206 S consists of two armoured units connected by an articulating unit.
The front unit contains the power pack and carries four people, including the driver and commander; the rear unit carries eight people. It can carry up to 1,670kg of cargo and can be armed with a ring-mounted 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun on the roof. The Bv 206 S is fully amphibious, propelled by its tracks. Before entering the water, a trim vane is erected. A wide range of equipment can be fitted, including an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection system, winch and night-vision aids. |
Artillery :
- FH-155-1 155mm
- M 109 A3 GE A1/2
|
The M 109 155mm self-propelled howitzer entered service with the German Army around 1960 with some 600 examples delivered. These were upgraded in 1965 with the main modification being the installation of a Diesel engine and became known as the M 109G ( G standing for Germany ). In the 1980s the German M 109Gs were upgraded to the US M 109A3 standard which included a new 155mm gun, reorganisation of the shell loading system, new fire control system and better radio communication. This version became known as the M109A3G or M109A3 GE A1. Further upgrades on the M 109 concluded in the M109 A3 GE A2 who's main purpose was a reduction in the work load for the crew with an automatic shell loading system and a electronic firing system.
The M 109 was supposed to be replaced by the PZH 2000, but since initial orders were only for 185 units the M 109 will remain in service until 2015. A service life-extension project has been signed in 1997 for 262 M 109 A3 GE A2 with an option for another 262. The M 109 remains the main artillery type in the German Army after some 40 years of service. |
- PzH 2000
|
The PzH 2000 (Panzerhaubitze 2000) is the 155mm self propelled howitzer developed by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) together with the main sub-contractor Rheinmetall Landsysteme for the German Army. KMW received a contract in 1996 for production of 185 units. The first system was delivered in July 1998 and deliveries are finished in 2002. Total German Army requirement is expected to be around 450 units.
The 155 mm L52 gun of the PzH 2000 was developed by Rheinmetall Industrie AG. The barrel length is 52 calibres and chamber volume is 23 litres. The PzH 2000 is equipped with a full automatic shell loading system with ammunition management system. The PzH 2000 automatic shell loading system can handle 60 rounds of 155 mm ammunition. |
- MARS Multiple Launch Rocket System
|
KMW was responsible for the integration of MARS (German version of the multiple launch rocket system MLRS) as well as the interface development and conversion to the German configuration. KMW was also commissioned to carry out important functions aimed at establishing logistic supportability and is responsible for the technical-logistic support of the complete system. MARS was introduced into service with the German Army in 1990. It was developed and adapted as an air-portable system.
The Multiple Launch Rocket System is a high mobility automatic system based on an M270 weapons platform. MLRS fires surface-to-surface rockets. The MLRS launcher unit comprises an M270 Launcher loaded with 12 rockets, packaged in two six-rocket pods. Lockheed Martin has also been awarded a contract to develop a new extended range guided rocket GMLRS which will have a range of approximately 60 km. The GMLRS rocket will have a GPS (global positioning system) and inertial guidance package and small canards on the rocket nose to enhance accuracy. The GMLRS is an international programme involving UK, Italy, France and Germany as well as the US the rocket is to enter service around 2004.
|
- Rocket launcher 110 SF 2
Air-Defense :
- Gepard 1 A1/2 Anti-Aircraft Tank
 |
The Gepard anti-aircraft tank is manufactured by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW), based in Munchen, Germany, and is operational with the armed forces of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. The Gepard is a heavily armoured, autonomous and mobile air defence system based on the chassis of the Leopard main battle tank. The vehicle is fitted with a fire control system, all-weather tracking and acquisition sensors and powerful automatic guns. Its role within NATO is to protect key installations, combat units and troops on the move, as well as on the battlefield.
The modernisation scheme for the Gepard includes: integration of C3 capabilities; improvement in target engagement with extended combat range, shorter reaction time and better hit and kill probability; and improved self protection. The Gepard is fitted with a two-man electric power operated turret armed with twin Oerlikon KDA 35mm guns.The rate of fire provided by the two barrels is 1,100 rounds/minute. Each 35mm gun has 320 rounds of ready-to-fire, anti-air ammunition and 20 rounds of anti-ground target ammunition. The guns are capable of firing a range of standardised 35mm ammunition, including the new Frangible Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot (FAPDS) rounds. KMW are developing a missile system for the Gepard, using the Stinger surface-to-air missile system. The twin Stinger launching system will be fitted on the side of the 35mm twin gun. |
- Roland Air Defense System
 |
The Roland short range air defence missile system is produced by Euromissile. German Army systems are installed on Marder tracked vehicles. The Roland system is effective against air threats from extremely low to medium altitude. It is available as a standalone weapon system on a single vehicle or as an airliftable shelter. The system is capable of firing Roland 2 and Roland 3 missiles and the Roland VT1 hypervelocity missile. Roland 2 and 3 missiles have command to line-of-sight guidance and hollow charge warhead, with both impact and proximity fuzing.
Roland 3 has longer range, 8km to Roland 2’s 6.3km. It also has a larger warhead, 9.2kg, to Roland 2’s 6.5kg. The VT1 has a speed of 1,250m/s and range of 11km. The Roland M3S has a dual surveillance system and 3D radar and infrared sensors operating in parallel. The target tracking system involves radar, infrared and CCTV operating in parallel with instantaneous channel switching. The system has a 3D X-band surveillance radar. The frequency-agile track-while-scan radar has a range of 25km at a maximum altitude of 9km. The tracking radar has a range of 20km. |
- Leflasys (SHORAD) Air Defense System
|
The LeFlaSys Light Mechanized SHORAD (Short Range Air Defence System) has been developed for the German Army by STN ATLAS Elektronik GmbH in and KMW. It is based on the Wiesel 2 carrier vehicle. The LeFlaSys system is expected to fulfill the short range air defence requirements of the rapid reaction forces of the German Army. Series production of 50 weapon platforms, ten platoon command post vehicles and seven AFF battery command vehicles began in 2000.
On 27 June 2001, the German Army took delivery of the first platoon of this new short-range air defence system at an official roll-out ceremony at the Feldwebel Schmid barracks in Rendsburg (Army Air Defence School). SHORAD (short-range air defence system) is primarily designed to carry out the tasks of crisis reaction forces based on the new strategic concept of NATO, especially for the protection of air-mobile forces, their assets as well as key systems required for the implementation of operations. The delivery of all systems will be completed in the year 2003.The Leflasys carries four ready-to-fire Stinger surface-to-air missiles, but can also be armed with Igla, Mistral, RBS 70 MK2 or Starburst missiles. |
Aviation (Heeresflieger) :
- BO-105 M (VBH) / P (PAH)
|
Sine the 1980s the mainstay of the Heeresflieger combat fleet has been two versions of the Bo 105, the PAH-1 anti-tank helicopter and the VBH observation helicopter. The replacement is the Tiger UHT for which a requirement for 212 exists.
Currently 92 Bo-105M VBHs remain and 204 Bo-105P PAH-1s. The main armament of the Bo-150 PAH-1 consists of six HOT anti-tank missiles. |
- Eurocopter Tiger UHT (*212 required)
|
The Tiger helicopter is being developed in three configurations, HAC (French) and UHT (German) anti-tank helicopters and a combat support helicopter designated HAP for the French Army. Germany has ordered 80 combat support aircraft with deliveries to begin in 2002. Total procurement is planned to be 215 for France and 212 for Germany. Both Tiger HAC and UHT anti-tank helicopters have an Osiris mast-mounted sight from SFIM, with infrared charge coupled device (IRCCD) camera and laser rangefinder. There is a nose-mounted forward looking infra-red (FLIR) with a 40 x 30 degree field of view.
The Tiger is fitted with EADS/LFK ATA firing posts for the launch of Euromissile HOT 3 and Euromissile TRIGAT LR anti-tank missiles, fired by the gunner. In its combat support role the Tiger uses a gun for short-range engagements, 68 mm rockets at medium and long range and Mistral missiles to engage airborne threats. Each cockpit is equipped with two multi-function colour displays supplied by Sextant Avionique and VDO Luftfahrtgerate Werk GmbH, which display imagery from the gunner's sight, the FLIR and video image from the Dornier/VDO digital map generator. |
- CH-53G/GS Stallion (104 in service)
|
|
The German Army Aviation ( Heeresflieger ) operates around 104 CH-53G/GS Stallions. The CH-53 fleet is to remain in service untill around 2030. These are due to go through an Life Extension Programme. Operations in the former Yugoslavia revealed that the CH-53G was not properly equipped for peace support and peace enforcement missions. So 20 CH-53G helicopters have undergone an upgrade to add new defensive countermeasures, avionics improvements and long-range fuel tanks to undertake combat search and rescue, the helicopters being redesignated CH-53GS ( S standing for special )
The Federal Office for Defence Technology and Procurement (BWB) has placed a multi-million Euro order with Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH for the conversion of 38 CH-53G/GS army helicopters to upgrade them for IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions) flights. Worth a total of 20.3 million Euro, the conversion programme will be completed at the end of 2005. The investment in the Bundeswehr's medium transport helicopters had become necessary on the one hand to meet the civil and military certification requirements for flights under IMC conditions and on the other to be able to fulfil the challenging operational requirements placed on man and machine in new international mission scenarios of the NATO alliance. |
- UH-1D Huey
|
The fleet of Dornier-assembled UH-1Ds will be phased out in favourof the NH-90 TTH. The German Army Aviation operates a fleet of around 120 UH-1D Hueys. Since 1967 the German army standard transport helicopter has been the UH-1D. Of the 204 delivered to the Army , just over the half remains. |
- NH-90 TTH
 |
The German Army Aviation will be extensively modified mainly through an initial batch of 80 NH-90TTHs while the final number procured will be around 120. Some examples will be equipped for the demanding combat search and rescue role.
The TTH version is primarily conceived for tactical transport of personnel (14-20 troops) and material (more than 2500 kg of cargo), heliborne operations and SAR. Additional applications include medevac, special operations, electronic warfare, airborne command post, parachuting, VIP transport, flight training. |
- EC-135 Training Helicopter (12 in service)
|
The long serving Alouette III is being replaced in the training role by the Eurocopter EC-635 ( Military designation EC-135). The first EC-135 was commissioned into service with Heeresflieger Waffenschule ( Helicopter Flying Training school ) at Buckeburg on September 13, 2000. Fifteen are on order, but if the decision is made to concentrate German helicopter training at the site, further examples may be purchased.
The Alouette will fly alongside the newer type untill the EC-135 simulator is up and running at Bluckeburg. The helicopter is powered by two engines, a digital cockpit, autopilot and a flight management system. |
UAV :
- Brevel UAV
 |
Brevel is an unmanned aerial vehicle for reconnaissance and target location.. Complete Brevel systems with five air vehicles were supplied to the French and German armies in 1998 for operational trials and evaluation. A production contract for the German Army was placed in 1998 for eight Brevel Systems, each comprising two ground stations and 10 air vehicles. The Brevel system can be ready for the air vehicle launch within thirty minutes of the ground vehicles reaching a launch site. The air vehicle's operating speed is 150 km per hour but can attain a maximum level speed of approximately 220 km/hour. The flight endurance is 6 hours and the operating range is 120 km. A Zeiss-Eltro Optronic WBG 96 x 4 forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera is installed in the nose of the air vehicle. |
- CL289 UAV
 |
The CL 289 Reconnaissance System is an unmanned airborne reconnaissance vehicle for use at corps and divisional level. CL289 was developed as a tri-national project between Canada, France and Germany. In January 2001, Dornier GmbH was awarded a contract by NATO for the upgrade of 140 French and German army CL289 drones. The reconnaissance payload consists of a Zeiss-Eltro Optronic KRb 8/24D optical camera and a SAGEM Corsaire infrared linescan system, which can be used separately or simultaneously according to the mission requirement. |
Sources :
|
 
| The primary areas of operation of the navy (Bundesmarine) in the event of war are the Baltic Sea and the North Sea. Until 1990 the navy's mission had been to block the Baltic approaches on behalf of NATO to prevent the deployment of the Soviet Baltic Fleet in the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.The political changes that unfolded in 1990 enabled the navy to reduce its concentration on the Baltic Sea and northern flank, shifting from defending against a tangible Warsaw Pact threat to preparing for a broader spectrum of maritime defense missions and tasks beyond home waters. The deployment of mine countermeasure vessels to the Mediterranean for NATO during the Persian Gulf crisis in 1990 and to the Persian Gulf after hostilities broke out in 1991, as well as Germany's participation in monitoring the naval blockade against Serbia in 1992, undoubtedly foreshadow other possible requirements distant from German coastal waters.Proportionately, the cuts imposed on the navy in response to the improved security situation in Europe have been the greatest among the three services. The ship inventory will be reduced to nearly half by the year 2005. German capabilities are being improved by the introduction of four `Type 212' submarines with air-independent propulsion. |
 |
These are bigger than previous classes and will enter service from 2004. Of surface ships, the `K130' corvettes, although designed principally for coastal duties, are large enough to operate further away from home if necessary and emphasise a trend towards `blue water' operations. The introduction of the first of two new `Berlin' class support ships in 2001 will significantly improve upon current capabilities in this respect. Looking ahead, there is speculation that a future class of support ships might be based on the Netherlands `Rotterdam' class amphibious ships, perhaps upon the same lines as the new British Landing Ships Logistic. |
| The new `Sachsen' class frigates, the first of which was launched in January 2001, are to replace the ageing `Lutjens' class from 2002. The rotary winged assets of the German Naval Aviation are due to be replaced by the NH-90 NFH. A total of 38 of the Helicopters are required to enter service after 2008. As a stop-gap, seven Super Lynx Mk.88A have been delivered with the surviving Lynx Mk.88s also brought upto this standard. Ten new MPA are the main urgent priority for the GNA , to replace most of its existing fleet of 18 Brequet Atlantics. |
Ships of the German Navy :
Surface Combatants :
-Sachsen Class (Type F124)
 |
The Sachsen Class (F124) is Germany's Air Defence Frigate being built by ARGE F124, a consortium consisting of Blohm and Voss as the leading yard, Howaldtwerke-Deutsche Werft and Thyssen Nordseewerke. The frigates are being built under the Trilateral Frigate Agreement, signed by the Netherlands, Germany and Spain which provides cooperation in national construction of the frigates in each country. The ship’s medium and long range anti-air missiles are the Raytheon Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) and the Standard Missile SM2111-A which are fired from a VLS Mk41 thirty-two cell launcher.
The F124 has two Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM), Mk 31 launchers and two four-cell Harpoon missile launchers. The RAM missile from Raytheon and RAM Systems GmbH, is a fire and forget missile which provides short range defence against incoming anti-ship missiles including sea-skimming missiles The ship is fitted with two triple Mk 32 torpedo launchers and also has helicopter-borne long range lightweight torpedoes. The flight deck and hangar accommodate two NH90 helicopters. |
-Bradenburg Class Frigate (Type 123)
|
|
The Type 123 Brandenburg Class frigates were ordered in June 1989 to replace the Hamburg class. The frigates are primarily tasked with anti-submarine operations, but they also contribute to anti-air defence, the tactical command of group forces and surface operations. The ships form part of the Wilhelmshaven-based 6th frigate squadron.The all-steel ship has stealth features, extra space for Task Group personnel, and fin stabilisers. It is designed to carry two AgustaWestland Sea Lynx Mk 88 helicopters and a rigid inflatable boat for boarding operations.
The federal armaments procurement agency, the BWB ordered four Type 123 frigates for the German Navy at an estimated systems price of US$363m.The ship is armed with two twin launchers for MM 38 Exocet surface-to-surface missiles.A Lockheed Martin Mk 41 Mod 3 vertical launch system for 16 NATO Seasparrow medium-range surface-to-air missiles is fitted.The ship also has two 21-cell launchers for the RAM (Rolling Airframe) short-range surface-to-air missile.The vessel is equipped with one Otobreda 76mm/62 Mk-75 main gun. |
-Bremen Class Frigate (Type 122)
|
|
The German Navy has eight Bremen Class frigates designed and built by Bremer Vulkan in the 1980s. The ship's primary role is for operation within the NATO and German task forces. The ship is designed primarily for anti-surface warfare missions with strong anti-air and anti-submarine warfare capability.
The Bremen has two four-cell Boeing Harpoon missile launchers. Harpoon (RGM-84) is an anti-surface missile, with active radar seeker and range of 130km. The ship's point defence system is based on the medium range NATO Seasparrow and the short range RAM (Rolling Airframe) missile.The ship accommodates two 4.5t class helicopters, the Sea Lynx Mark 88. |
- Type K 130 Corvette
 |
The specification of the new Class 130 generation of corvettes for the German Navy, defined on a competitive basis, has been finalised with the discision of the German Ministry of Defence to open contractual negotiations with the ARGE K130 for the building of 5 corvettes.The design concept of the ARGE K130 is based on the development of B+V's MEKO® Class A frigates and corvettes - a concept that has attracted significant interest on the international market - and on the latest FLW design concepts for export orders.
In important fields of technology, the developments that were begun for the Class 124 frigates, have been consistently followed through, for example in the area of on-board automation, in the computer and network technology and in the software for weapons and guidance systems.
In addition, the K130 incorporates numerous new developments and innovative proposals. As an example, the K130 will be the first naval ship in the world to be fitted with 2 drones for area reconnaissance and monitoring beyond the radar horizon. As far as the radar and infrared signature is concerned, the K130 has stealth properties. This permits deployment in coastal waters in particular within the remit of multinational rapid response forces. |
Submarines :
- U-206A Class submarine
- U-212 submarine
|
The U212 submarine is capable of long distance submerged passage to the area of operation. The German Navy has ordered four of the submarines, the first ship will be commissioned in the year 2004. U31, the first of class, is expected to begin sea trials in October 2002.
There are six torpedo tubes in two groups of three. Type 212 is equipped with a water ram expulsion system for torpedo launch. The submarine is equipped with the DM2A4 heavyweight torpedo weapon system from STN Atlas Elektronik.The Type 212 is equipped with a highly integrated Command & Weapons Control System which interfaces with sensors, weapons and navigation system. EADS and Thales Defence Ltd have been awarded a contract to develop the FL1800U electronic warfare system for the German and Italian navies' U212 submarines. The 1800U is a submarine version of the FL1800 S-II, which is in service on the Brandenburg and Bremen class frigates. |
Fast Missile Ships :
-Gepard-Klasse (type 143A)
-Albatross-Klasse (type 143)
 |
Beside the armament of missiles, typical for German Missile Boats , these units have wire-guided long-range heavyweight torpedoes. The fire control systems permits the fight against five targets at the same time and can launch radar dummy targets and infrared decoys. Just as the other missile boats the Albatross class are also able to make contact with other warships, naval headquarters as well as the AWACS early warning aircraft with radio data transmission connection in real time.
Armament Includes :
|
2x 76 mm of OTO Melara of cannons/62 compact
|
|
4x anti-ship missile Aerospatiale mm of 38 EXOCET
|
|
2x 533 mm of torpedoes AEG Seeal (cable-steered) | |
Support Ships :
-Tender Elbe (type 404)
 |
The task of the Elbe Class Tenders exists mainly in the supply of fuel, water, food, spare parts and ammunition for naval ships operating in the deep Ocean . Thereby the sea endurance of the supplied boats can be substantially extended.
Besides that the Tenders with their garbage disposal mechanism and waste water processing facility ensure a environmental fair disposal of the waste produced in the on-board operation.
Armament Includes :
|
2x Stinger Launchers
|
|
2x 20mm Rhine metal cannon | |
- Berlin Class Combat Support Ship (type 702)
 |
"Berlin" is the first of two combat support ships currently being built by Flensburg-based Schiffbau Gesellschaft mbH & Co.KG and the Lürssen Werft GmbH & Co. Bremen. The ships have a length of 176 meters, a water displacement of approximately 20,000 tons and 140 permanent crew members. The combat support ships of the Berlin Class are the largest ships of the German navy. The main task of the Berlin class exists in the supply of German ships in high lake. Thus their sea endurance can be increased from approx..21 days to 45 sea-days. The first ship of this class, BERLIN, was finished in September 2000. The Second ship , Frankfurt/Main, was laid down in May 2002. They will be both stationed in Wilhemshaven.
EADS affiliate Dornier will be delivering the marine version of its mobile 'TransHospital' field hospital also to the second combat support ship of the German Navy. The DM10 million so-called Marine Emergency Rescue Centre (MERC) contract was announced here at IDEX 2001. MERC consists of 26 special containers for the treatment of sick and wounded personnel. The containers can be erected as a two-storey construction on the main deck or on land in crisis areas. |
Aircraft & Helicopters :
-Tornado IDS
|
|
Navy TORNADOs are mainly tasked for maritime strike attack and tactical air support of maritime operations in multiple roles like Maritime-Attack, Reconnaissance and Minelaying. For these missions the aircrafts can be equipped with the KORMORAN anti-ship missile and the Anti-Radiation-Missile HARM Anti-Radiation missiles.Lessons learned from previous operations and missions will be the basis for the Tornado short- and mid-life modular upgrade programs concerning "Combat Efficiency Enhancement". The main operational task of this element is to improve weapon system performance and accuracy, while enhancing the aircraft's ability to operate in a multi-national environment.
They are designed to support and enhance the long-term operational role GNY Tornado To keep up with these increasing requirements over the next two decades, all remaining GAF and GNY Tornado combat aircraft will undergo a further update program during the upcoming years, the so-called ASSTA 2 (Avionics System Software Tornado in Ada) whereby software as well as hardware updates go hand in hand. Two new weapon integrations are also part of the "Combat Efficiency Upgrade". Both weapons, the Modular Stand Off Weapon TAURUS and the HARM PNU (High Speed Anti Radiation Missile with Precision Navigation Unit), are still in development. |
-Atlantique/Peace Peek
|
Peace Peak (SIGINT version)
|
In 1996 MFG 3 received the first of 18 Brequet Br.1150 Atlantic maritime patrol aircraft. The majority of the Atlantics act as a long-range reconaissance aircraft for aerial patrol operations, shadowing threat aircraft and ships and intercepting target data transmissions. They also autonomously conduct anti-submarine warfare ,as well as co-operate with friendly submarines.
Operating alongside the standard maritime patrol Atlantics are the five surviving (from 6 converted) Peace Peek Elint platforms. The conversion displays several external differences including additional radomes under under the fuselage and modifed wing tips. The Atlantic maritime patrol aircraft are now over 30 years old and the search for a successor has begun in co-operation with Italy, which has the same requirement. |
- Super Sea Lynx Mk.88A
 |
Severe delays to deliveries of the NH-90, mean that the German Navy has had to keep the Lynx in service longer than anticipated, and even had to order an additional seven Mk.88As in 1996 for the 'Bradenburg' frigates. The lynx Mk.88A fleet will total 24 in 2003, by when the older 17 Mk.88 helicopters will have undergone life extension programme to bring them to Mk.88A standard.
The Mk.88A features several improvements as compared to the older Mk.88 helicopters. Super Lynx Mk.88A is equipped with a 360° scan radar and the BAE SYSTEMS Seaspray Mark 3000 mounted in the chin fairing under the nose. By relocating the radar there is room for a moveable infrared sensor on the nose. For this, the Navy selected the Marconi Multi Sensor Turret. It is now possible to employ Sea Skua missiles from the helicopters. They have a range of more than 15 kilometres and are supposed to offer a high probability of impact even when used against small targets. The navigation system has been improved by integrating a GPS receiver.A more durable rotor head and new composite blades with specially formed tips allow for a higher maximum take-off weight. |
-NH 90 NFH
 |
The NATO Frigate Helicopter (NFH) is one of two versions of the NH90 twin-engine multi-role helicopter being developed by NH Industries. The German Navy has ordered 38 NH-90 NFHs. The primary missions of the NH90 NFH helicopter are in the autonomous anti submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface ship warfare (AsuW) role. Secondary roles include anti-air warfare (AAW), vertical replenishment (VERTREP), search and rescue (SAR), troop transport and mine laying.
The cockpit has five 8in x 8in colour multifunction liquid crystal displays for flight, mission systems and maintenance data.The NATO Frigate Helicopter can be armed with anti-submarine torpedoes, air-to-surface missiles and air-to-air missiles.The NFH is equipped with a tactical forward-looking infrared system (FLIR) mounted in the nose, a magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) and a sonar suite. The NFH is equipped with a 360° surveillance radar mounted under the nose. |
Sea King Mk.41
 |
Twenty-two Sea Kings have been in service since 1975 with MFG 5 at Kiel. Originally planned for the SAR only. the Sea Kings Mk.41s have been progressively modified to equip them also for anti-surface and anti-submarine duties.
The Sea Kings are now also active in tactical air transport roles for the Navy, Air Force and the Army during peace time operations . They were utilised for this role for the first time during the Gulf War. Due to be replaced by the NH Nato Frigate Helicopter. |
Sources :
| |
Visit the World's Armed Forces Forum | |
bravenet.com