Germany’s Pegasus Surveillance System Faces Delays

PEGASUS Surveillance System: Initial Flight with Delays

The initial flight of Germany's PEGASUS surveillance platform, a modified Bombardier Global 6000, occurred in mid-September 2024 at Bombardier’s Wichita, Kansas facility. However, the sensor unit, integral to the system, has yet to be installed. Originally set for operational readiness by 2025, the program now anticipates completion by 2027, marking a 20-month delay.

Launched in June 2021, the PEGASUS project aims to bolster the German Armed Forces' signals intelligence (SIGINT) capabilities. Featuring HENSOLDT's Kalætron Integral SIGINT system, PEGASUS is designed to intercept and analyze radar and radio signals, enhancing crisis detection and situational awareness.

Großwald Curated Insights

• Contractors and Equipment: The German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) has engaged Hensoldt Sensor GmbH, Lufthansa Technik AG, and Bombardier to jointly deliver this advanced airborne surveillance system. Hensoldt is the primary contractor, overseeing development of the "Kalætron Integral" system designed for intercepting military communications and radar signals. The collaborative project integrates each party's expertise, with Hensoldt’s SIGINT technology specifically configured for the mission requirements set by Germany’s Bundeswehr.
• Previous Capability Gap: Since 2010, the German military has lacked an active signal intelligence fleet after retiring Breguet Atlantic BR 1150 aircraft. Plans for an unmanned system were scrapped due to costs, prompting the choice to retrofit Global 6000 jets. Once operational, the PEGASUS system aims to significantly enhance Germany’s airborne intelligence and electronic warfare capabilities, addressing the rising security complexities across Europe.

Cost Increases and Adjusted Timeline

The delay adds an estimated €211 million to the project cost, with Lufthansa Technik slated to install the "Kaleetron Integral" SIGINT system at its Hamburg facility starting in summer 2025. Hensoldt’s system, based on technology initially developed for the Eurohawk drone, incorporates newly developed components to handle advanced frequency ranges.

Expanded Requirements

Amid heightened global security concerns, German lawmakers and experts argue that the current plan for three PEGASUS systems may be insufficient. Hensoldt representatives indicated ongoing discussions with the Bundeswehr regarding the acquisition of additional systems to address the broader scope of emerging threats. The PEGASUS initiative is expected to incur cost estimated at nearly €1.2 billion in total.

Sources: Behörden Spiegel, Business Insider, Army Technology, Source Security