Eurofighter Upgrade Integrates AI for Advanced Electronic Warfare

A New Era for the Eurofighter: Integrating AI into Electronic Warfare

In a significant development for European defense capabilities, technology companies Helsing and Saab Germany have finalized a major contract to upgrade the Eurofighter Typhoon. This agreement, signed in November 2025, marks a pivotal shift in how air combat systems approach the electromagnetic spectrum. By integrating artificial intelligence into the aircraft’s sensor suite, the partnership aims to equip the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) with next-generation Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities. The collaboration focuses on the Eurofighter EK (Elektronischer Kampf) program, a specialized variant designed to undertake the suppression of enemy air defenses.

The contract outlines a clear division of labor that leverages the specific strengths of both entities. Saab Germany is set to provide the hardware infrastructure through its Arexis sensor suite, while Helsing will supply the cognitive processing power via its Cirra AI software. This fusion of advanced hardware and software is intended to address the growing complexity of modern air defense systems. With deliveries scheduled between 2025 and 2028, the program represents a rapid modernization effort to ensure the Eurofighter remains effective in contested environments.

Financially, the scope of the project is substantial, reflecting the priority placed on this capability upgrade. The total order value for Saab is reported at approximately €549 million. Within this framework, the specific component involving Helsing’s artificial intelligence technology is valued at roughly €258 million, though this figure remains subject to final authority approval. We observe that this investment is not merely about maintaining current standards but is a direct response to the urgent need to replace aging platforms and counter increasingly sophisticated threats.

The Technological Fusion: Arexis and Cirra

The core of this upgrade lies in the integration of Saab’s Arexis suite with Helsing’s Cirra software. Traditionally, Electronic Warfare systems have relied on “threat libraries”, databases of known radar signatures. When a system detects a signal, it compares it against this library to identify the threat. However, modern adversaries increasingly utilize software-defined radars capable of “shapeshifting,” or altering their frequency patterns and signal characteristics rapidly. These adaptive threats often render static library-based systems ineffective, as the threat signature may not match anything in the pre-recorded database.

Helsing’s Cirra software addresses this vulnerability by utilizing deep learning algorithms rather than static matching. This AI-enabled approach allows the system to process signal data in real-time, identifying and classifying unknown emitters based on their behavior and intent. For instance, the system can determine if a radar is searching, tracking, or locking onto the aircraft, even if the specific signal signature has never been encountered before. This cognitive capability provides the Eurofighter with a distinct strategic edge, allowing it to operate effectively against modern, adaptive air defense networks.

Complementing the software is Saab’s Arexis, which serves as the physical interface with the electromagnetic environment. This fully digital sensor and jamming suite utilizes high-power Gallium Nitride (GaN) Active Electronically Scanned Arrays (AESA). These advanced sensors act as the “eyes and ears” of the aircraft, detecting emissions across a wide spectrum. Simultaneously, the powerful jammers provide the offensive capability necessary to blind enemy radars. The integration involves retrofitting 15 existing Eurofighters designated for the EK role and equipping new Tranche 5 aircraft, replacing the previous wingtip pods with this more advanced offensive suite.

“The move to the development phase follows intensive testing and investment, underscoring the ability to rapidly develop, test, and introduce new technologies.” — Gundbert Scherf, Co-founder & Co-CEO, Helsing.

Strategic Context: Replacing the Tornado

The urgency behind this upgrade is driven by the operational requirements of the German Air Force. The Luftwaffe is currently in the process of retiring its fleet of Panavia Tornado ECR jets, which have historically held the responsibility for Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) and Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (DEAD). These missions are among the most dangerous in air warfare, requiring aircraft to fly into hostile airspace to neutralize radar and missile sites. The Eurofighter EK is the designated successor for this critical role.

The transition from the Tornado to the Eurofighter EK represents more than just a platform update; it is a shift toward cognitive warfare. As potential adversaries, such as Russia and China, continue to develop Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) bubbles protected by complex air defense systems, the ability to survive inside these zones becomes paramount. Defense analysts view the integration of AI into the Eurofighter’s EW system as a necessary evolution, transforming the platform from a pure air superiority fighter into a potent electronic attack asset capable of neutralizing these sophisticated threats.

Furthermore, the project emphasizes the importance of European technological sovereignty. By developing critical data processing and threat analysis algorithms within Europe, the partner nations ensure control over their own security architecture. This reduces reliance on external technology for critical defense functions and secures the intellectual property and tactical advantages associated with the new EW capabilities. The program targets full NATO certification by 2030, ensuring interoperability within the alliance.

Concluding Section

The partnership between Helsing and Saab Germany signifies a robust step forward for the Eurofighter program. By combining the raw power of GaN-based AESA sensors with the adaptability of deep learning AI, the Eurofighter EK is being positioned to handle the unpredictable nature of modern electronic warfare. The successful integration of the Cirra software into flying testbeds and the subsequent contract signing demonstrate a commitment to rapid innovation in the face of evolving threats.

As deliveries proceed through 2028, the focus will likely shift to the operational integration of these systems into the Luftwaffe’s tactics and training. The ability of the Eurofighter EK to detect and neutralize shapeshifting emitters will be a defining factor in its future operational success. This program not only extends the service life and relevance of the Eurofighter airframe but also sets a precedent for how artificial intelligence will be utilized in future defense procurements across Europe.

FAQ

Question: What is the primary purpose of the Eurofighter EK?
Answer: The Eurofighter EK (Elektronischer Kampf) is designed for the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD). Its primary role is to detect, classify, and neutralize enemy radar and missile systems, replacing the aging Tornado ECR fleet.

Question: How does Helsing’s AI differ from traditional Electronic Warfare systems?
Answer: Traditional systems rely on “threat libraries” to match signals against known databases. Helsing’s AI, known as Cirra, uses deep learning to analyze signals in real-time. This allows it to identify unknown or “shapeshifting” radars based on their behavior, rather than relying solely on pre-recorded signatures.

Question: What is the value and timeline of the contract?
Answer: The total order value for Saab is approximately €549 million, with the Helsing AI portion valued at roughly €258 million. Deliveries are scheduled to take place between 2025 and 2028.

Sources

• Helsing Newsroom