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German Air Combat Demo: Industry Team Unveils New Tech


German Military Demonstrates Electromagnetic Combat Capabilities for Citizen Evacuation

Manching, Germany – A recent live flight exhibition by german defense companies showcased advanced electromagnetic combat (EC) capabilities, simulating the evacuation of German citizens from a crisis area heavily defended by air defense systems. The demonstration, witnessed by representatives of the German Armed Forces, highlighted the effectiveness of coordinated electromagnetic warfare in neutralizing enemy threats and ensuring safe passage for rescue operations.

Simulated Citizen Evacuation Using Electromagnetic Warfare

The simulated scenario involved a Pilatus PC-12 turboprop aircraft equipped with an electromagnetic surveillance and jamming system, acting as a stand-off jammer. This aircraft detected and classified an SA-8 air defense missile system from a safe distance, effectively jamming it with electromagnetic countermeasures, rendering it combat ineffective. A simulated Airbus A400M military airlifter than safely entered the crisis area, landed, and evacuated the citizens, demonstrating the practical application of electromagnetic warfare in real-world scenarios.

Supporting the operation was a SHARCS remote carrier, equipped with a stand-in jammer, which suppressed enemy communications, delaying any potential response from opposing forces.Seamless dialogue and data exchange between friendly forces were facilitated through a secure cloud, enabling AI-supported analysis of reconnaissance and effect data.

Did You Know? Electromagnetic combat operates without ammunition and is non-kinetic, meaning it causes no physical damage.

The “luWES” Project: Building German Electromagnetic Superiority

This demonstration is a key component of the German defense project “luftgestützte Wirkung im elektromagnetischen Spektrum” (Airborne Effects in the Electromagnetic Spectrum), or luWES. The project aims to build up Germany’s EC capabilities, with companies like Airbus, bKEC, HENSOLDT, IBM, MBDA, PLATH, Rohde & Schwarz, and Schönhofer collaborating to develop the necessary technologies under the banner “EC made in Germany for Germany.” The next phase involves further development of individual luWES components.

LuWES will establish a “system of systems” comprising complementary and modular subsystems that provide airborne electromagnetic protection for armed forces.This includes stand-off jammers operating at a distance, escort jammers working alongside manned missions, and stand-in jammers penetrating enemy lines. According to a 2024 report by the RAND Corporation, integrating such systems is crucial for modern air force effectiveness.

The Three Pillars of Electromagnetic Protection

The luWES project is structured around three core jamming capabilities:

  • Stand-off Jammer: Operates from a great distance,jamming enemy radar and communications systems outside their direct range.
  • Escort Jammer: Operates alongside manned mission platforms,actively protecting them in enemy territory by continuously jamming enemy radar and missile systems.
  • Stand-in Jammer: Penetrates directly into the enemy’s effective range, suppressing enemy air defense systems at close range.

Pro Tip: Effective electromagnetic combat requires seamless integration of various jamming technologies and real-time data analysis.

Comparison of jammer Types

Jammer Type Operating Range Protection Level Deployment
Stand-off Jammer Long Range Area Protection Outside Enemy Range
Escort Jammer Medium Range Platform Protection Alongside Manned Missions
Stand-in Jammer Short Range Close-Range Suppression Inside Enemy Range

The German military’s investment in electromagnetic combat capabilities reflects a growing recognition of the importance of electronic warfare in modern conflict. By developing and deploying advanced jamming technologies, Germany aims to enhance its ability to protect its forces and citizens in an increasingly complex and contested electromagnetic environment.

What are the potential ethical implications of using electromagnetic combat in civilian areas? How might advancements in AI further enhance electromagnetic warfare capabilities?

Evergreen Insights: The Evolution of Electromagnetic Warfare

Electromagnetic warfare (EW) has evolved significantly since its early applications in World War II. Initially focused on simple radio jamming, EW now encompasses a wide range of technologies and tactics, including sophisticated radar jamming, electronic surveillance, and cyber warfare. The increasing reliance on electronic systems in modern militaries has made EW a critical component of contemporary warfare. The development of advanced sensors, communication networks, and weapon systems has created new vulnerabilities that can be exploited through electromagnetic attacks. As technology continues to advance, EW will likely play an even more prominent role in future conflicts.

FAQ: Electromagnetic Combat and the luWES project

What is electromagnetic combat (EC)?

Electromagnetic combat (EC) involves using electromagnetic energy to control the electromagnetic spectrum or attack an adversary. It includes jamming enemy communications and radar systems without causing physical damage.

What is the luWES project?

LuWES, short for ‘luftgestützte Wirkung im elektromagnetischen Spektrum’ (airborne Effects in the Electromagnetic Spectrum), is a German defense project focused on developing electromagnetic combat capabilities. It aims to provide electromagnetic protection for armed forces from the air.

How does a stand-off jammer work in electromagnetic combat?

A stand-off jammer operates from a safe distance, jamming enemy radar and communications systems outside their direct range. This protects friendly forces and increases their effectiveness by suppressing enemy sensors before they enter the area of operation.

What role does a stand-in jammer play in neutralizing air defenses?

A stand-in jammer penetrates directly into the enemy’s effective range to suppress enemy air defense systems at close range. This protects friendly weapons and increases their effectiveness and assertiveness.

Who are the key players in Germany’s electromagnetic combat development?

Key players in developing electromagnetic combat capabilities in Germany include Airbus, bKEC, HENSOLDT, IBM, MBDA, PLATH, Rohde & Schwarz, and schönhofer. They are working together under the motto ‘EC made in Germany for Germany.’

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