#defencematters
#securitymatters
#spacematters
2020 would have normally been a busy airshow year. We were looking forward to updating you on the many new developments and business highlights across our industry at various trade shows such as the ILA Berlin Air Show in Berlin, Eurosatory in Paris and the Farnborough International Air Show near London. As of today, the significant meeting, travel and event restrictions have made physically hosting these shows impossible. In order to adapt to these changes, we will reach out to you digitally instead. Be sure to revisit this landing page frequently to find the latest publications in addition to announcements and special features such as Airbus-hosted virtual panel discussions.
Check out our latest #spacematters podcast
Off to the ISS!
NASA astronaut Randy Bresnik’s path to space
When Randy Bresnik was a young child, all he wanted to do was fly. Fast-forward to 2020 and the retired U.S. Marine has surpassed even his wildest dreams – having distinguished himself both as a fighter pilot and test pilot before making two trips to space as a NASA astronaut.
Bresnik discusses a broad range of topics in Airbus’ latest podcast, providing insights on space cooperation between Europe and the United States, his experience aboard the International Space Station, the various training involved, and more.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
Airbus CyberSecurity – Protecting Everyday Life.
In our society today, a world without satellite communications, navigation and Earth observation systems is unimaginable. Services provided by space-based systems have become omnipresent - simply think about navigation, TV broadcasts, weather forecasts, climate monitoring or military communications, even the Internet of Things stays connected through satellite communications. All acquired and distributed data is valuable, often sensitive and hence of interest to various groups: customers, competitors, hacktivists, nation states or military forces.
In the past, large resources were required to attack space-based systems. But today the technical barrier is much lower and disrupting critical satellite operations might become possible at much lower cost and effort. This opens the door to many more potential attackers. Therefore, state-of-the-art monitoring and protection measures are a must for space-based systems, just like for any other technical system supporting critical infrastructure.
In this podcast, Dr. Frank Schubert, specialist in Defence and Aerospace Security, explains how Airbus protects satellites from cyber-attacks and why it is so important to keep our systems save.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
Defending Earth
Podcast #DefendingEarth
Find out how Airbus intends to keep asteroids at bay.
Asteroid Day (30 June) is held each year on the anniversary of the largest impact in recent history, the 1908 Tunguska event in Siberia. A relatively small asteroid, about 40 meters across – the equivalent of a medium-sized office building – devastated an unpopulated area the size of a major city. A one-off event or a real threat? It’s not a matter of IF Earth will be hit by an asteroid, but when! If this is the case: How can we avoid a disastrous asteroid impact in the future? In this podcast interview Albert Falke, Programme Manager for Asteroid Deflection at Airbus Defence and Space, gives an overview on methods and needs for Planetary Defence.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
UP42
Across nearly all major industries, many are looking toward a future of mass adoption of geospatial technologies. But what technical and commercial barriers do we need to break down to truly democratize access to geospatial data and analytics?
Globally, institutions and companies have gathered more Earth observation (EO) data than can ever be analyzed using traditional image processing methods. With emerging companies racing to launch their own EO systems, we face an unprecedented increase in capacity and volume of data that inspires us to explore the importance of machine learning and cloud computing infrastructure in generating insights at scale. In this interview, Sean Wiid, Chief Product Officer at UP42, explains the role of platforms like UP42 in enabling the mass adoption of geospatial technologies.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
Pléiades satellites
Satellite imagery provided by Airbus helps EU institutions analyse the impact of Covid-19 on the economy.
700 km above us, Airbus-built Pléiades satellites are taking high-resolution images of areas affected by Covid-19. This imagery is vital for a project launched by the European Space Agency ESA. It is called RACE – short for Rapid Action on COVID-19 and Earth Observation – and aims at providing information on the state of European society and economy in times of Corona.
In this podcast interview Hervé Foch, Head of Imagery, Mapping and Location-Based Services team at Intelligence; explains how his team supports RACE and where Covid-19 impacts industrial activities.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
Solar Orbiter
Solar Orbiter is ready for its close-up with the Sun
Currently travelling at some 105 million kilometres from Earth, the Airbus-built Solar Orbiter (SolO) is en route for an encounter to uncover the secrets of our closest star.
While humankind has been studying the Sun for hundreds of years, the research is limited because data was always collected from distances more or less equal to the star’s separation from Earth, according to Ian Walters, Airbus’ SolO Project Manager. Click here to learn more!
The Airbus-built Solar Orbiter (SolO) is on an epic journey to unlock the Sun’s secrets.
For inside information on this explorer spacecraft’s unprecedented mission, listen to the latest Airbus podcast – which includes insights from Ian Walters, the Solar Orbiter Project Manager. Podcast topics include SoIO’s testing prior to launch in February 2020 and protecting the deep space probe from temperatures exceeding 500°C when it reaches the Sun’s vicinity.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
Orion
Building Orion’s European Service Module
When NASA’s Orion crewed spacecraft sets course for an historic return to the Moon by 2024, it will rely on unique Airbus technology for a range of essential functions – from the supply of air and water to propulsion, power and thermal control. This technology is brought together in the European Service Module (ESM), built by Airbus for ESA.
Learn how it comes together in our new series of videos below.
Airbus wins ESA contract to construct third European Service Module for NASA’s Orion spacecraft
The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a contract with Airbus for the construction of the third European Service Module (ESM) for Orion, the American crewed spacecraft. The contract is worth around €250 million.
Learn more on the third European Service Module ESM through these videos below!
Aeolus
Daily weather forecast – brought by Aeolus
Find out how Airbus’ wind-sensing satellite Aeolus supports meteorologists where aircraft can’t in Corona times.
The recent drop in commercial flights has also affected measurements for weather forecasting. But thanks to an Airbus-built satellite launched two years ago for our ESA customer, meteorologists are still able to give reliable forecasts. In our latest podcast interview, Philippe Pham, who leads Airbus’ space activities for Earth observation, navigation and science satellites, explains how Aeolus helps them achieve it.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
#Aeolus is the first satellite capable of performing global wind-component-profile observation on a daily basis in near real-time. For more information on the topic click here!
Latest News
Check out our latest #defencematters podcast!
#A400M
#A400M Flying Airbus’ next-generation airlifter
The A400M is the “topic du jour” for Airbus’ latest podcast, including insights from someone who knows this advanced military aircraft inside and out: Jon Taylor, an experimental test pilot at Airbus Defence and Space.
Based at the San Pablo site near Seville, Spain – where A400Ms are assembled – Taylor says it’s a privilege to fly the aircraft and underscores key capabilities that set it apart from the competition, both now and for the years to come.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
Multi Domain Superiority
New threats, new challenges
At a time of drastic change, and in a highly interconnected and competitive world, new threats to our way of life are emerging.
Modern and future combat systems need to adapt to this new form of danger. Capabilities to overpower adversaries as diverse as local asymmetric forces, global stateless organizations or new hostile technologically-advanced countries, rely on network-enhanced collaboration combat systems. Whether at home or in an operational theatre, excellence is needed to ensure Multi Domain Superiority. Find out more here
A400M Customer Testimonials
Royal Malaysian Air Force interview
Royal Malaysian Air Force interview on A400M capabilities
Royal Malaysian Air Force interview on A400M capabilities
Airbus’ A400M is flourishing as a key logistical asset for the Royal Malaysian Air Force, bringing next-generation technology to a broad range of missions since the first delivery in 2015.
The Royal Malaysian Air Force – which ordered four A400Ms – primarily uses the four-engine aircraft to transport passengers and cargo (particularly heavy cargo), while air-to-air refuelling trials have underscored the potential for new mission applications. Read full interview here
Spanish Air Force interview
Spanish Air Force interview on A400M capabilities
Spanish Air Force interview on A400M capabilities
As more and more Airbus A400Ms join the Spanish Air Force’s fleet of aircraft, this military service is working to expand the capabilities of its next-generation airlifter while further increasing mission diversity.
The A400M is a “big jump” for the military service according to Colonel Melecio Hernández, Commander, Wing 31 of the Spanish Air Force. “It means that we will be able to reach farther destinations; provide support to our air force, our deployments and the rest of the air forces; and we will better serve our nation in our international commitments,” he explained. Read full interview here
French Air Force interview
French Air Force interview on A400M capabilities
French Air Force interview on A400M capabilities
The French Air Force became the first customer to receive Airbus’ A400M in 2013. Since then, the four-engine aircraft has taken a leading role in this military service’s counterterrorism and humanitarian efforts, among other high-profile missions. According to Benoît Paillard, the French Air Force’s A400M Programme Manager, the next-generation airlifter’s introduction has revolutionised the way tactical transport aircraft are operated – both within France and on deployments outside the country. Read full interview here
Medevac
Airbus military aircraft perform life-saving medevac missions during the COVID-19 pandemic
AIrbus Military Aircraft - Medevac
Air Forces performing Medevac operations in the fight against covid-19
With the number of coronavirus patients mounting around the world, Airbus-built military transport aircraft are increasingly used for civil medical evacuation (medevac) duties in time-critical airlift flights – with the company providing valuable support for their air force operators.
The Airbus-produced airplanes enlisted in such missions include its large A400M tactical/strategic airlifter and A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). Click here to learn more!
H145M
Dispatch from the field: H145M’s latest operations fulfill expectations
With Hungary recently receiving three additional H145Ms in May 2020, this light-attack, four-tonne helicopter seems poised for action this year. Here’s a look at how customers like Luxembourg, Serbia, the Thai Navy, the German Bundeswehr and the Hungarian Defence Forces are introducing their first units into operation.
H145M - the flying command post
The H145M is a true multi-role helicopter. In addition to tactical air transport of six fully equipped special-forces commandos, this light twin-engine helicopter can be deployed for fire support, armed reconnaissance, evacuation of wounded or for hostage rescue. But attention is shifting to an ever greater extent to its use as a flying command post. In close cooperation with industrial partners, Airbus Helicopters is working to further expand the command, control, communications, computer, collaboration and intelligence (C5I) capabilities of the H145M. Click here to learn more!
Eurofighter
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to fly a Eurofighter? Then check out this podcast interview.
Meet Marco Gumbrecht, former Eurofighter Typhoon fighter pilot at the German Air Force. He has flown the jet for many years and had a remarkable career in aviation so far. It has taken him from the German Air Force to Airbus Defence and Space, where he is the Head of Future Business Eurofighter and Military Relations in Combat Aircraft Systems.
In this podcast interview, Marco will give you an operational insight view into the Eurofighter and how he sees the future of the Eurofighter Typhoon.
Available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Deezer, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, Tune In and Google podcast
#Eurofighter more thrilling than Top Gun
80 aircraft – including 24 Eurofighters – took part in the world’s most important air combat training exercise: Red Flag. Read here full story and learn how it all came together!
FCAS
#FCAS is an incremental journey
As the future is unpredictable: FCAS is an incremental journey
In a unpredictable world of growing threats, FCAS will deliver increasing operational effects by leveraging the collective capabilities of connected manned and unmanned platforms, bringing the next level of Air Power to highly denied environments.
At the heart of FCAS, manned New Generation Fighters teaming with unmanned Remote Carriers as force multipliers will form the Next Generation Weapon System or NGWS. Various national and ally platforms will supplement the NGWS in a collaborative approach by adding their unique capabilities. Such a system of systems approach will reach beyond the air domain by including sea, land, space and cyber. The Air Combat Cloud will enable seamless collaborative combat across domains by leveraging the connected capabilities of pooled platforms. Click here to learn more!
First FCAS Virtual Panel discussion took place on May 14th.
"For the very first time in history, a major security technology project is being accompanied from the very beginning by an intellectual struggle regarding the technical implementation of ethical and legal fundamentals" Professor Dr. Wolfgang Koch
Watch the entire session here!
Listen to Bruno Fichefeux, Head of FCAS, talking about ILA & the digital initiatives to continue informing on the next milestones of the Future Combat Air System programme.
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See also
H160
Airbus Helicopters’ multi-role twin engine H160 has been granted its type certificate by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), marking a new chapter for the programme. The company is expecting FAA certification to follow shortly prior to first delivery to an undisclosed US customer later this year.
“The successful completion of the H160 Type Certificate is the result of several years of tremendous work and efforts accomplished jointly by the involved technical teams of the Agency and Airbus Helicopters in a remarkable fruitful cooperation spirit,” EASA Certification Director Rachel Daeschler said. “It is the result of thorough design and testing efforts, to ensure the highest safety standards are reached. The design of the H160 makes it suitable for a wide range of versatile missions. It is also one of the most environmentally friendly with respect to fuel consumption and one of the quietest helicopters of its class.
Read the full press release.
H145
Airbus Helicopters’ five-bladed H145 has been certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), clearing the way for customer deliveries towards the end of summer 2020. The certification covers the full range of capabilities, including single-pilot and instrument flight rules (IFR) and single engine operations (Cat.A/VTOL), along with night vision goggles capability.
Read the full press release.
Kissing the Aconcagua
Kissing the Aconcagua: The new Airbus H145 set its skids down on the Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Southern Hemisphere, culminating at 6,962 metres (22,840 feet). This was the first time a twin-engine helicopter landed at this altitude, confirming the performance and the extensive flight envelope of the new H145.
Read moreKissing the Aconcagua: The new Airbus H145 set its skids down on the Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Southern Hemisphere, culminating at 6,962 metres (22,840 feet). This was the first time a twin-engine helicopter landed at this altitude, confirming the performance and the extensive flight envelope of the new H145.
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