RUAG International Enhances Dornier 228 Avionics for the German Armed Forces with Cutting-Edge ADS-B Upgrade
RUAG MRO International has successfully enhanced the avionics of two specialized Dornier 228 aircraft, aligning them with ADS-B Out standards. This initiative, commissioned by the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), involved the supply of ADS-B Out transponder kits and engineering services for Pollution Control aircraft utilized by the German Armed Forces. Notably, RUAG stands as the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for the Dornier 228.
In July 2019, RUAG MRO International efficiently met all engineering demands for the avionics upgrade, which included critical modifications and approvals for the ADS-B Out kits. This was carried out from their dedicated customer support, engineering, and production facilities located in Oberpfaffenhofen. The OEM support encompassed essential configuration settings, thorough final function tests, verification processes, and obtaining supplemental military type certification as mandated by the German Military Aviation Authority (LufABw).
The expert team at German Naval Air Wing 3 executed the integration of these upgrades on both multirole aircraft during their scheduled maintenance sessions. The first aircraft, designated 57+04, successfully completed the upgrade in December 2019, followed by aircraft 57+05 in August 2020.
Michael Franz, Director of Customer Support for Dornier 228 at RUAG MRO International, stated, “Trust, reliability, and direct access to OEM support are vital for our network of operators and clients. They deliver crucial services, which are more important than ever, ensuring mission success and operational efficiency.”
The two Dornier 228 aircraft play a pivotal role for the German Navy under the auspices of the Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure, tasked with monitoring the North and Baltic Seas for marine pollution. Their operational flexibility is crucial, as these multirole platforms engage in cross-border missions and coastal surveillance to support maritime emergencies and search and rescue (SAR) operations. Both aircraft are stationed at German Naval Air Wing 3 in Nordholz, Germany.
