Cassidian is developing a new engineering support system (ESS) for German Air Force Eurofighter. The Cassidian ESS acts as an interface for the exchange of maintenance data with the aircraft, the analysis of aircraft and engine data, structural loads, and the interpretation of error messages from the Eurofighter avionic systems.

A successor to the present ESS – which is used by the four Eurofighter core nations – is needed in order to provide optimum support for future equipment upgrades to the Eurofighter as of software version SRP12 (P1E). In addition, the new system is fully connected to the Bundeswehr’s logistics information system (SASPF – standard application software product families). The Cassidian ESS will also improve the operational capability of the German Eurofighter fleet, for instance significantly shortening the inspection times between consecutive missions.

The ESS has a modular design and contains a standard interface for linking it to various logistics systems. This not only enables it to support other weapon systems, but also to be tailored to the specific requirements of other nations.

Cassidian was awarded the development contract by the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) in early October. The new system is being developed at the Military Air Systems Centre in Manching in cooperation with the German Air Force, and will be delivered to the customer in 2014.