The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has underscored the significance of robust air defense capabilities in Europe. The German-orchestrated European Sky Shield Initiative [ESSI] has united 19 European nations with the shared goal of bolstering their collective air defense.

In the spirit of making an expedited impact, the practical steps towards this objective are currently underway. Profound industry knowledge from seasoned partners, like the German sensor solutions provider, HENSOLDT, is crucial for the successful outcome of this Initiative.

The European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI)
The term ‘air defense’ is typically associated with measures taken to ward off airborne assaults. These could take various forms – ranging from missiles and cannons to lasers. Various military systems exist, each designed to complement the other, as they have distinct zones of interception. In simpler terms, these systems function optimally at specific distances and altitudes. These are categorized into short, medium, and long-range. At ESSI, our mission is to bridge any existing gaps in these areas while enhancing their current capabilities.

Radar technology forms an indispensable part of an effective air defense mechanism. For many years, radar has been a powerful tool in times of conflict. With time, the applications of radar technology have diversified, extending even to low-cost drones that pose a threat. This, in turn, has amplified the importance of radar-based threat detection capabilities.

Short-range radars on-the-move
Recent advancements in drone technology have revealed vulnerabilities in short-to-medium-range air defense systems. Fortunately for you, HENSOLDT’s SPEXER 2000 radar can tackle these weaknesses head-on. Not only that, but it’s also renowned as one of the premier radars worldwide for undertaking counter-UAV missions. Trust us, it’s a big deal – military and security forces from across the globe have been relying on this system for nearly 20 years. To keep up with the speed of innovation, the SPEXER 2000 has undergone several iterations, each one including more features while further enhancing its capabilities.

Now, let’s discuss the newest version: the SPEXER 2000 MkIII. This update addresses the need for battlefield mobility while adding 3D detection functionality, even for microscopic drones. Impressively, the radar system employs a spectral-based micro-Doppler automatic target classification to differentiate among a diverse range of VSHORAD targets – from UAVs and helicopters to even birds. Which means you don’t need to worry about performance. With its innovative electronic design, this system not only costs less to operate but it’s also significantly less impactful on your power grid.

But we are not done yet. The SPEXER 2000 features a fixed panel that covers a wide area of 120° azimuth. This guarantees you full 360-degree coverage without any blind spots when used in conjunction with two extra panels. That’s what we call comprehensive protection. Furthermore, by coordinating panels with 90° coverage, you can create complete hemispherical protection for your vehicle and surrounding area.

Now comes the icing on the cake: the SPEXER 2000 has statistically established its competency in effectively protecting moving vehicles and convoys. This is a capability that some radar systems can only dream of possessing.

With all these amazing features, it’s no surprise that the SPEXER 2000 3D MkIII will be incorporated in the short-range self-propelled anti-aircraft missile system [FlaRakPz] within the German LVS NNbS [short & very short range air defense system] program. That’s an endorsement!

Battle-proven Air Defence with TRML-4D
In the realm of mid-range ground-based air defense, ESSI places solid faith in the IRIS-T SLM system by Diehl Defence, set to operate in the upcoming years. One of its pivotal tools is HENSOLDT’s TRML-4D radar. This device has demonstrated its merit through its protective services for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The TRML-4D employs advanced AESA radar technology, providing it with multiple digitally formed beams. Its adaptability enables the early detection of diverse aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, and cruise missiles. Noteworthy for its efficiency, the TRML-4D assures speedy detection and tracking of approximately 1,500 targets within a range of up to 250 km.

Combined radar powers
Our current focus is on combining HENSOLDT’s Twinvis passive radar with the ESSI system. Our aim is to address the need for a more effective system with capabilities that are conducive to further development.

So, what makes Twinvis unique? It’s a discreet radar that operates by using existing electromagnetic pulses broadcasted on TV and radio wavelengths. It harnesses these signals and analyses them when they’re reflected after hitting an object. As a result, it can operate stealthily, making it resistant to jamming, which is a significant advantage in the military industry.

In a striking synergy, we’re merging the capabilities of HENSOLDT’s Twinvis and TRML-4D to form TwinSens. This alliance cultivates unprecedented functionalities and operational advantages. By allowing these two systems to share sensor data and establish joint control, we’re noticeably enhancing the system’s overall performance beyond what any standalone sensor can offer.

It is a noteworthy achievement that TwinSens can generate a preliminary air picture without any RF transmissions, thus reducing the risk of enemy detection. With enhanced resistance against current jammers and improved situational awareness, this radar solution certainly sets a new standard.

Joint efforts
There’s a heightened interest among ESSI nations in collectively acquiring the necessary weapons systems and ensuring their efficient operation. This collective procurement has the potential to boost interoperability among these nations. Their reciprocal support will be streamlined by using the same systems and compatible ammunition. Additionally, this collaboration is likely to be financially beneficial. Ordering defense systems in bulk under joint procurement can result in significant cost savings. Combining logistical concepts along with repair and material maintenance could lead to further reductions in operational expenditure.

In partnership with technologically advanced sensor specialists like HENSTOLD, they stand prepared to create a safer future.