An unusual encounter in German skies recently drew attention: an A320 Airbus (Advanced Technology Research Aircraft), modified for research, crossed a flight with a Eurofighter Typhoon fighter from Luftwaffe during a test mission.
The Hybrid A320, operated by Airbus and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), in cooperation with Bundeswehr, made its first flight in the initial operational capacity configuration (IOC). The objective of the mission was to collect data to validate the adapted fuselage design that now houses the new Aeses MK1 (Active Electronicly Scanned Array) radar.
The innovative project
The A320 was equipped with a Eurofighter nose, developed and installed by Airbus teams. This front module houses the Aesa MK1 radar, key piece for the next generation of Eurofighters.
The new system promises to expand the aircraft’s multi-air capabilities in AR-AR and air-solo operations, as well as providing greater support in electronic war missions. This is an important step in consolidating European technological superiority in the air defense sector.
Strategic cooperation
Designed in partnership between different Airbus divisions and industrial partners, the project represents a joint effort between industry and armed forces to accelerate technological maturity.
According to LUFTWAFFE, the use of the modified A320 allows you to perform more flexible flight integration and validation tests, reducing costs and risks before definitive implementation in operational Eurofighters.
Source and Images: LUFTWAFFE | Bundeswehr | Airbus defends, x @airbusdefence. This content was created with the help of AI and revised by the editorial team.
