Germany is strengthening its independent intelligence capabilities with the procurement of at least three additional Pegasus signals-intelligence (SIGINT) aircraft based on the Bombardier Global 6000 business jet. Equipped with Hensoldt’s Kalaetron Integral electronic-intelligence suite, the aircraft are designed to detect, classify, and geolocate radar and communication emitters across wide frequency bands. The SIGINT equipment will be integrated by Lufthansa Technik (LHT).
The platform’s array of more than a dozen antennas allows long-range monitoring of military activity deep inside Eastern Europe. For example, tracking Russian air-defense and command networks from international airspace over Poland or the Black Sea region. In peacetime, Pegasus will provide early warning of force movements and electronic activity. In crisis or war, it will enable precise targeting of adversary radar and air-defense systems. The system will therefore play a significant role in getting relevant targeting information for other new Bundeswehr platforms such as the Eurofighter EK, F-35s and will complement the upcoming luWES (airborne electronic attack) capability.
The first aircraft completed its maiden flight last year, with the introduction into operational service planned for 2027. Berlin is considering an expansion of the fleet by three to six additional units, a move that would make Germany far less reliant on U.S. reconnaissance data than during the early phase of the Ukraine war. The contract for the follow-on order is expected to be signed before the end of the year.