ESG - Interoperability enabler for multi-domain operations during "Timber Express 2023"

The Timber Express 2023 exercise focussed on the interaction between different players along the entire sensor-to-effector chain. Within the NATO Secret environment, the aim was to provide a standardised situation picture from different data link variants - real interoperability within a highly complex information and communication network. In addition to the German Air Force, Army, Navy, Cyber and Information Space Organisation and the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support, NATO and other partner nations also participated in the exercise. New this year, as a result of the network between sensors, command and control, and effectors, was the live firing. Connection to the Link 16 network was provided by the Joint Fire Support multi-link gateway, enabling the sensor-to-effector concept to be mapped digitally across all branches of the armed forces: Targets at the Munster training area were reconnoitred by Air Force Tornados and engaged by Army PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers. The firefight was coordinated by the Joint Fire Support Coordination Group in Jagel, which was connected to the firing unit in Munster via a long-distance connection (RBM SatCom) through the ADLER system.
 

During Timber Express 2023, ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH supported the Bundeswehr in testing all forms of tactical data links between the participating entities and was thus able to contribute to the success of the exercise. Among other things, the ESG tested the connection between the Joint Terminal Attack Controllers, equipped with the ESG software EAGLE2 for digitally-aided close air support, to various weapon systems such as the Tiger attack helicopter or the H145M special forces helicopter. Further link connections were implemented via the Link 16 network as a radio network and as a “wire network protocol” with the Joint Fire Support multi-link gateway. ESG took part in the exercise as part of the projects “Dismounted Joint Fire Support Team”, “Joint Fire Support multi-link gateway” and “Joint Fire Support Coordination Group” to support the system users.

ESG has been one of the leading German providers of design, integration, operation and in-service support of complex, security-related electronic and IT systems for more than five decades. In Germany and internationally, ESG provides products and services for customers from government authorities, the fields of defence, public security and industry. ESG is a certified aviation company for aircraft and aviation equipment for the Bundeswehr (German Federal Armed Forces) and an aviation engineering company in line with EASA Part 21J, EASA Part 21G and EASA Part 145. As a special systems company for mission avionics, simulation and training, as well as special deployment systems, ESG offers customised solutions. Independent process and technology consulting is one of ESG's key competencies. Technology transfer between markets is what makes a significant contribution to our customers' added value.

Contact:
Ulrich-Joachim Müller, Head of Corporate Communications 
+49 (89) 92161-2850
ulrich-joachim.mueller@esg.de