The flagships of German government flight operations are to be equipped with a self-defense system to defend against infrared-guided missiles.
The Defense and Budget Committees of the German federal parliament had previously approved the self-defense project.
Lufthansa Technik AG was then officially commissioned by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) to equip the long-haul fleet of the Federal Ministry of Defense’s Special Air Mission Wing.
The three Airbus A350 aircraft, for whose conversion Lufthansa Technik had already acted as general contractor, will be equipped with a so-called DIRCM system.
Directed InfraRed Counter Measures
DIRCM stands for “Directed InfraRed Counter Measures” and comprises systems for protection against enemy guided missiles. These are usually fired from the shoulder (so-called Man-Portable Air Defense Systems, or MANPADS for short) and using infrared seeker heads.
Through DIRCM, the latter is specifically deflected by transmitted jamming codes. The aircrew does not have to actively intervene.
Such systems are already in use on various aircraft types worldwide and offer proven, high-quality protection for VIP and head of state aircraft as well as military platforms.
Michael von Puttkamer, Vice President Special Aircraft Services at Lufthansa Technik gave comment on the importance of the project.
“The Special Mission Air Wing is responsible for Germany’s political-parliamentary flight operations. In view of increasing global instability and regional conflicts, the use of MANPADS by non-state actors, among others, poses a concrete threat.”
“The security situation demands that Germany ensures the protection of its own leadership. We are therefore proud of this lighthouse project with Elbit Systems and Airbus and look forward to contributing our expertise.”
Lufthansa Technik, a global leader in aviation services, brings substantial expertise to this project. As a subsidiary of Lufthansa Group, the company has over 60 years of experience in aircraft maintenance, repair, and modification.
Their Hamburg headquarters serves as a center of excellence for VIP and special mission aircraft modifications. It makes them uniquely qualified for this sensitive undertaking.
To minimize disruption to government flight operations, Lufthansa Technik will install the DIRCM systems during scheduled maintenance periods, working on one aircraft at a time.
This approach ensures continuous availability of the fleet while maintaining the highest standards of technical implementation.
Summary
The project represents a collaboration between key industry leaders. Lufthansa Technik will work alongside Elbit Systems, the DIRCM system manufacturer, and Airbus, the aircraft’s original manufacturer.
This partnership combines Lufthansa Technik’s modification expertise with cutting-edge defense technology and aircraft manufacturing knowledge.
This initiative reflects Germany’s commitment to protecting its political-parliamentary flight operations in an increasingly complex global security environment.
The Special Air Mission Wing is responsible for transporting Germany’s highest government officials, including the Chancellor and Federal President. It will benefit from enhanced security measures that meet the highest international standards.
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