Germany’s Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Use of the Bundeswehr, known as BAAINBw, awarded the contract. The system links the Bundeswehr’s Battle Management System with Army airborne platforms.
Optarion acts as an interface between aircraft and command-and-control systems. It supports the Tiger, NH90 and CH-53GA helicopters within the armed forces’ networked tactical information structure.
“With Optarion, we integrate both existing and new platforms into the digital command and control network without requiring any modifications to the aircraft,” said Alex Irmscher, Programme Manager for Ground Stations at HENSOLDT. “The new contract allows us to consistently further develop this capability for the Army, the Air Force and our international users.”
The approach allows aircraft already in service to join the network through software and ground-based infrastructure. HENSOLDT said this lowers integration effort and costs while improving operational flexibility.
The company released two Optarion versions last year. One included an updated information technology platform for the Bundeswehr.
The latest version supports the Tiger combat helicopter in its Bootes and MR3+ configurations. HENSOLDT said the update expands the aircraft’s capabilities and interoperability.
HENSOLDT has also delivered an international version to an unnamed NATO customer. That configuration is designated the Mission Planning Ground Station.
The same customer later decided to award a follow-on contract for the ground station. HENSOLDT said the international work reflects demand for Optarion and supports its engagement on NATO’s eastern flank.
