Alongside the incorporation of future fifth-generation F-35 aircraft by the United States, the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) is also focusing its expansion and modernization plans on its current platforms. First, the acquisition of 38 new Eurofighter Tranche 4 fighters, designated Quadriga, stands out. More recently, the purchase of an additional 20 aircraft was confirmed—designated Eurofighter EK (Elektronischer Kampf)—specialized in electronic warfare missions and intended to replace the current Tornado ECR in this role.
In connection with this latest development, several agreements have been reached between Airbus Defence and Space and various contractors regarding the acquisition and supply of avionics equipment. Among these, the Swedish firm Saab stands out. Through its partnership with Helsing, Saab is responsible for equipping the new German Eurofighter EKs with the Arexis electronic warfare suite.
For this reason, following the selection of the electronic warfare systems and the first order placed by Airbus in March 2024, an additional order was announced by Saab on November 14. This brings the total contract value to 549 million euros, with deliveries scheduled for the 2025–2028 period.
“We are proud to deliver Arexis to the German Air Force, further strengthening Swedish–German cooperation. Arexis is one of the most advanced fully digital sensors and jamming systems available on the market. The system will enhance the Eurofighter’s situational awareness and survivability on the modern battlefield,” stated Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.
Regarding the characteristics of the Arexis EA system, Saab and Helsing note that it “…provides superior situational awareness in a complex signal environment with active electronically scanned arrays (AESA), offers all-direction self-protection with next-generation ultra-wideband receivers and digital radio frequency memories (DRFM), and is capable of neutralizing anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) bubbles with support jamming.”
Lastly, it should be noted that Airbus has scheduled delivery of the future Eurofighter EK aircraft between 2031 and 2034, in order to allow sufficient time for the development of this specialized version of the European fighter, while also advancing deliveries of the 38 Tranche 4 units, currently in various stages of production.
Photographs used for illustration purposes.
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