To infinity and beyond.-

Photo By Luftwaffe.

A total of 85 aircraft of the German Air Force are due to be modified under the ASSTA 3.0 modernisation programme led by Cassidian. One of three aircraft to have been returned to Luftwaffe use in late June following the completion of ASSTA 3.0 modernisation work, is assigned to the Büchel-based Fighter Bomber Wing 33.

Work conducted under the upgrade includes adding a Saab radar warning receiver below the forward fuselage, a digital moving map sourced from the Eurofighter Typhoon programme, a digital video and data recorder, and a Saturn radio.

A new display also enables the pilot to see imagery from the aircraft's targeting pod for the first time. Crucially, it also introduces the hardware and basic software for the Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS)/Link 16 datalink.

Another key enhancement is the integration of Boeing's GBU-54 laser-guided JDAM. Five of the 226kg (500lb) weapons will be released over Sweden's Vidsel test range next month as part of an operational test and evaluation activity involving four aircraft.

Full integration of the MIDS equipment will come with a subsequent ASSTA 3.1 phase in 2015. This will also replace obsolete displays in the rear cockpit and introduce new chaff and flare dispensers to further boost self-protection.

Photo By Craig Barret.

Mr. Steve Cam, from the Australian Tactical Fighter Systems Program Office, with a completed Hornet Upgrade Phase 2.3 F/A-18 Hornet during the official project completion ceremony held at RAAF Base Williamtown.

The completion of the Hornet Upgrade Phase 2.3 (HUG2.3) has delivered a comprehensive capability upgrade to the RAAF's fleet of Classic Hornets including an electronic warfare modification program comprising a replacement radar warning receiver, a supplementary countermeasures dispenser and electronic countermeasures systems, and an enhanced data recording capability.

Photo By Craig Barret.

Israel Aerospace Industries (ELTA) representative, Mr. Jonathon Lipsky with a completed Hornet Upgrade Phase 2.3 F/A-18 Hornet during the official project completion ceremony held at RAAF Base Williamtown.