By Staff Correspondent
Leonardo, a leading aerospace company, has secured a pivotal position in the Eurodrone program, a multinational initiative managed by OCCAR that involves four European countries. This program holds significant strategic importance for Europe and aims to enhance the region’s defense autonomy through the development of high-performance independent operational systems. With a total worth of 7 billion euros, the Eurodrone program has already seen the ordering of 20 systems, consisting of 60 aircraft in total.
Leonardo will play a crucial role in this initiative by spearheading the development of the mission system for Eurodrone. As a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE)-class remotely piloted aircraft, Eurodrone will be equipped with an advanced Airborne Mission System (AMS) designed by Leonardo. The AMS encompasses a range of cutting-edge sensors, including radar and the Multi Purpose Mission Computer (MPMC), providing the aircraft with exceptional intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
The AMS’s suite of sensors enables Eurodrone to effectively carry out ISR missions both at sea and on land, gathering and integrating data from various on-board sensors, even under critical operational conditions. The collected data can be recorded and transmitted to ground stations and cooperating units, facilitating a comprehensive tactical picture. Real-time data fusion significantly reduces the time and effort required for operators to analyze and interpret events, thereby expediting response times throughout the chain of command.
Leonardo’s contributions to the Eurodrone program extend beyond the mission system. The company is also responsible for the on-board electronics and aerostructures component, which encompasses the Airborne Electrical & Environmental Control System, the Airborne Armament System, and the design and production of the aircraft’s wing structure. These contributions solidify Leonardo’s pivotal role in the program’s industrial workshare.
Leonardo will undertake the design, development, integration, and production phases for the AMS system at its Caselle Torinese location. Additionally, the company will provide support for the integration of prototypes at the Manching base and engage in flight testing activities in the relevant polygons. Through its joint venture with MBDA, Leonardo will integrate the air-to-surface Brimstone missile, bolstering Eurodrone’s ability to engage and neutralize both static and moving threats in diverse weather conditions.
The Eurodrone program, managed by OCCAR, currently involves the participation of Germany, Spain, France, and Italy. With orders placed for 20 systems, each comprising two ground stations and three aircraft, the program also encompasses Ground Support Equipment, spare parts, training, and five years of support during the initial service phase.
Eurodrone’s innovative technologies, designed for dual-use purposes, position it as a key pillar in the next-generation aircraft systems, benefitting national governments and armed forces. As the first unmanned aircraft system conceived for non-segregated airspace, Eurodrone’s modular design ensures advanced operational capabilities for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. By embracing a digital approach in drone design, production, and services, the program promises significant improvements in development times, quality, and cost reduction. Moreover, the Eurodrone initiative is set to generate approximately 7,000 highly qualified jobs across Europe.
