HAMBURG, Germany, Dec 12, 2025 – The PEGASUS (Persistent German Airborne Surveillance System) airborne surveillance program reached a milestone with the arrival of its first aircraft in Germany. The aircraft flew from Bombardier’s Wichita, KS facility and landed last week at Lufthansa Technik’s Hamburg headquarters in Hamburg, beginning the next phase of work for HENSOLDT, Lufthansa Technik Defense and Bombardier Defense.
The PEGASUS program will give the German armed forces (Bundeswehr) airborne signals intelligence (SIGINT) capability. It is led by Hensoldt and uses mission aircraft provided by Lufthansa Technik and Bombardier.
“This delivery marks a decisive step towards operational capability,” said Jürgen Halder, vice president Airborne SIGINT at HENSOLDT. “With the arrival of the first aircraft in Hamburg, we are entering the crucial phase of system integration and qualification. Together with our partners, we are now moving from design and test into full implementation – bringing the next generation of airborne intelligence to life.”
“Bombardier’s high-performing Global aircraft are the go-to choice for the most demanding government missions around the world,” said Steve Patrick, vice president, Bombardier Defense. “We are proud to collaborate with HENSOLDT and Lufthansa Technik to help bring this next-generation signals intelligence aircraft to the German Armed Forces.”
The next phase at Lufthansa Technik will integrate the Kalaetron Integral–based SIGINT system, install the mission cabin and add military and communication systems. Lufthansa Technik will complete both civil and military certification of the aircraft. Preparations for entry-into-service support are underway. The work includes training technical and flight personnel and creating the technical documentation needed for operational use.
“Seeing the PEGASUS aircraft returning to Hamburg for their important next chapter is a proud moment for our teams,” said Michael von Puttkamer, vice president special aircraft services at Lufthansa Technik. “This milestone marks the start of an exciting new phase in which we will bring together technology, craftsmanship, and special mission aircraft expertise to deliver one of the most advanced airborne intelligence platforms ever built.”
HENSOLDT leads the PEGASUS program and is responsible for the weapon system, ground station, training facility and data analysis capabilities. Lufthansa Technik Defense procures and modifies the aircraft and integrates the reconnaissance system developed by HENSOLDT. Bombardier Defense provides the Global 6000 and supports the program with engineering and flight-testing expertise.
Source: Bombardier
About HENSOLDT
Hensoldt AG is a German defense electronics and sensor technology company founded in 2017. It develops radar, optoelectronic, avionics and electronic warfare systems for defense, security and aerospace customers worldwide, including military, government and civil agencies. The company builds and integrates systems used for protection, surveillance and situational awareness across air, land, sea and space domains. Hensoldt also provides lifecycle services, training and simulation tools for its equipment. The company operates production sites in Germany, France, the UK and South Africa, with sales offices supporting global markets. Hensoldt is headquartered in Taufkirchen, near Munich in Bavaria, Germany. It employs about 9,000 people worldwide as of 2025. Hensoldt works across defense, aerospace and security sectors and supplies systems for military platforms, radar networks and sensor applications. The company traces its origins to former Airbus Defense and Space sensor operations before its spin-off. Hensoldt’s products and services support armed forces, government agencies and allied defense programs.
About Lufthansa Technik Defense
Lufthansa Technik Defense is a military aircraft maintenance, modification and support unit within Lufthansa Technik AG, an aviation services company founded in 1995 and headquartered in Hamburg, Germany. The unit provides maintenance, repair, overhaul and modification services for military and special mission aircraft. It supports patrol, transport and surveillance fleets with technical services, lifecycle support and parts management. Its customers include defense ministries, armed forces and government aviation programs. Lufthansa Technik Defense also works on aircraft integration and sustainment projects, including support for maritime patrol aircraft and other missionized platforms. The unit operates within Lufthansa Technik’s global network, which serves civil and military aviation customers across multiple regions. Lufthansa Technik Defense uses the parent company’s capabilities in airframe systems, engines and components to meet military aviation requirements. Its work supports national air forces, government agencies and defense contractors involved in aircraft operation, modification and sustainment efforts worldwide.
About Bombardier Defense
Bombardier Defense, a division of Bombardier Inc., delivers aircrafts and solutions for government, military, and special operations. The division provides design, testing, certification, and support for missions, including airborne surveillance, maritime patrol, border security, and humanitarian response. Established in 2022 with its Wichita, KN site designated for defense work, Bombardier Defense builds on the company’s history in aircraft engineering and operations.