Germany selects consortium to deliver AI backbone for FCAS

AI will transform the evaluation of sensor data, support missions, and deploy effectors. To allow this key capability to be developed and deployed quickly, Germany has decided to create a cross-functional AI platform as a development environment for all partners and pillars of FCAS. (Hensoldt )

The German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) has selected a consortium to deliver the artificial intelligence (AI) backbone for the Future Combat Air System (FCAS)/Système de Combat Aérien du Futur (SCAF).

The AI backbone or software platform will be delivered as part of the national Next Generation Weapon System (NGWS) research and technology (R&T) programme by a consortium comprising Helsing, IBM Deutschland, and Rohde & Schwarz (R&S) subsidiary, Schönhofer Sales and Engineering (SSE), an R&S spokesperson told Janes on 31 August.

FCAS is a multinational initiative involving France, Germany, and Spain to develop a next-generation combat air system. Part of FCAS is the NGWS, which will consist of sixth-generation fighter aircraft and unmanned aerial systems. Each country has a designated national industrial co-ordinator, consisting of Airbus for Germany, Indra for Spain, and Dassault for France.

Only the results from this R&T solution will be used in the greater AI FCAS platform. It will not be hard baked into FCAS, rather, it is a software solution that follows an open architecture approach with standardised interfaces that will involve establishing a customised AI platform for the German Armed Forces and its partners, according to customer requirements in this domain, the R&S spokesperson said.