HENSOLDT Celebrates 20 Years of Rapid Eurofighter Support with Technical Diagnostic Cell in Laage

HENSOLDT Celebrates 20 Years of Rapid Eurofighter Support with Technical Diagnostic Cell in Laage

(IN BRIEF) HENSOLDT’s Technical Diagnostic Cell (TDC) in Laage, Germany, celebrates 20 years of maintaining the German Air Force’s Eurofighter fleet. The TDC plays a vital role by offering on-site repairs for key radar and self-protection system components, minimizing aircraft downtime. Originally established to provide fast, automated diagnostics and repairs, the Laage TDC model has been replicated in the UK, Spain, Italy, and other countries. The TDC’s approach of replacing faulty subassemblies has proved highly efficient, reducing costs and ensuring Eurofighter readiness. Over the years, the TDC has adapted to challenges, including increased operational demands due to geopolitical tensions and maintaining continuous operations through the pandemic. Looking ahead, the facility is preparing for future upgrades like the E-scan radar, ensuring its continued relevance in Eurofighter support.

(PRESS RELEASE) LAAGE/ULM, 27-Sep-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — HENSOLDT’s Technical Diagnostic Cell (TDC) in Laage celebrates 20 years of service, playing a crucial role in maintaining the German Air Force’s Eurofighter fleet. Located directly at the airbase near Rostock, the TDC has forged strong, long-standing partnerships with the Air Force by providing immediate, on-site repairs of essential radar and self-protection system components. This customer-centric approach, which integrates automated diagnostics and advanced tools, was groundbreaking when introduced.

Since the Eurofighter’s debut in 2003, the TDC in Laage has emerged as a key facility, capable of swiftly diagnosing and repairing components, ensuring aircraft are quickly cleared for operation. The Laage TDC’s success served as a model for similar facilities, leading to the establishment of Technical Diagnostic Cells in the UK, Spain, and Italy within a year, with further expansion beyond Europe. In Germany, a second TDC was opened in Neuburg an der Donau in 2011 to support the growing Eurofighter fleet.

HENSOLDT’s TDCs operate as direct partners with the German Air Force, providing efficient repairs for malfunctioning devices removed from aircraft. The technicians at these centers rely on specialized diagnostic and testing systems, with logistical support from HENSOLDT’s headquarters in Ulm. This structure allows for efficient repairs, even of complex assemblies such as the CAPTOR radar and PRAETORIAN self-protection system, which contain around 20 key components (LRIs) essential to the Eurofighter’s operations.

The TDC model emphasizes replacing faulty subassemblies, minimizing aircraft downtime and repair costs, while reducing the need to transport large parts for more extensive repairs. TDC staff also service equipment from partner companies Indra, Elettronica, and Leonardo, who contribute to the Eurofighter’s CAPTOR and PRAETORIAN systems.

The Laage TDC has demonstrated flexibility in adapting to challenges, including increased demand due to geopolitical tensions and maintaining continuous operations throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Electrical and mechanical faults, as well as issues like corrosion, are addressed with quick turnarounds, ensuring the Eurofighter fleet remains mission-ready.

As the TDC celebrates its 20th anniversary, it continues to evolve, incorporating upgrades like the DP4 package on the PRAETORIAN system and preparing for future enhancements such as E-scan radar support. What started as an innovative approach has become a proven, adaptable solution, securing its place in the future of Eurofighter support.

About HENSOLDT

HENSOLDT is a leading company in the European defence industry with a global reach. Based in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company develops complete sensor solutions for defence and security applications. As a system integrator, HENSOLDT offers platform-independent, networked solutions. Being a technology leader, the company is also driving forward the development of defence electronics and optronics and is continuously expanding its portfolio based on innovative approaches to data fusion, artificial intelligence and cyber security. In 2023, HENSOLDT achieved a turnover of 1.85 billion euros. Following the acquisition of ESG GmbH, the company employs around 8,000 people. HENSOLDT is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX.

Media Contact: 

Carina Engelhardt
Tel.: +49 (0) 7364.9557.531
Email: carina.engelhardt@hensoldt.net

SOURCE: HENSOLDT