Concept & Future Development

Tornado Nations will keep their fleets operational until 2025 and beyond. At present the Enhancement and technology insertion is focused on the following capabilities:

 

GBU-38 (laser JDAM, 500 lbs) on GE Tornado. Laser JDAM provides Single Laser/GPS Weapon capability to GE Tornado at affordable cost by inherent modular flexibility and superior aircraftloadouts.

 

 

SATURN: Second Generation Anti-jam Tactical
UHF Radios for NATO A new V/UHF radio system with SATURN capability has been proposed to replace the existing XT3000 radio system for VHF and UHF communication.

MIDS: Multiple Information Distribution System (Link 16)
The MIDS integration into GE Tornado allows jamming resistant data transmission via the NATO Link16 standard network as well as secure voice communication and TACAN functionality. This enables the GE Tornado for Joint and Combined Operations in allied tactical air force operations. Delivery of aircraft with MIDS capability is planned from 2009 onwards.

 

 

CWS The purpose of airborne CWS is to automatically detect other aircraft whose relative position and course pose a risk of a mid-air collision.

TARDIS/PMFD Replacement of existing equipment with the Tornado Advanced Radar Display Information System (TARDIS) consisting of the Radar Map Display Processor (RMDP) and the Radar Video Processor (RVP). It provides an AMLCD display and digital map drive. Replacement of the existing GR4/4A Head Down Pilots Multi Function Display (PMFD), using Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) technology, with a Replacement PMFD using modern display and processing technology.

ADR Replacement of the existing equipment with a new ADR to meet the new recording and survivability requirements of the Tornado fast jet environment.

TDASS (RWR & AECM) [IT] The upgraded DASS for the IT IDS and IT ECR Tornado A/C will meet the IT Customer requirements for an improvement of the self defense capabilities of the IT Tornado as part of the Mid Life Update programme.

Electrooptical Reconnaissance Pod (IT) - Reccelite The Italian Air Force (ITAF) have a requirement to upgrade their surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting capability. This requirement shall be fulfilled by introducing an Electro-Optical Pod, (i.e. the Reccelite-Pod).