Top Aces gains German adversary training contract

Germany has contracted Canada-based Top Aces to provide fast-jet adversary air training services for the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces).

The company announced on April 26 that the recently awarded contract will become effective from January 1, 2022. Operating out of Wittmundhafen Air Base in the German state of Lower Saxony, Top Aces has already been providing advanced airborne training for the Bundeswehr for the past six years. The firm plans to invest more than CDN$100m in furtherance of the new contract.

Rolf Brandt, senior programme manager of German Operations at Top Aces, said: “As Germany’s trusted partner, we’re delighted to continue training its combat forces well into the future. In support of the growing programme, we plan to increase our staffing levels in Germany, adding more than 20 highly skilled employment opportunities to the local economy.”

With a continuous focus on innovation, Top Aces is introducing new advanced capabilities that will raise the bar for the adversary air industry. Beginning in 2017, Top Aces has made significant investments in research and development (R&D) to develop a proprietary Advanced Aggressor Mission System (AAMS). This allows for the use of state-of-the-art active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and infrared search and track (IRST) systems on a variety of aircraft types, including Top Aces’ Douglas A-4N Skyhawk and Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon fleets.

The AAMS is a revolutionary new technology that allows its aircraft to simulate the most advanced capabilities of modern-day opponents in air-to-air combat operations. Flight testing and certification of the AAMS on Top Aces’ A-4N Skyhawk have been completed, enabling the company to begin delivering AAMS missions to Germany and to demonstrate this capability to potential customers in North America and Europe.

Top Aces plans to export its technology and expand its footprint in the UK and throughout Europe to foster growth in the region. “With both commercial and military airworthiness certifications on our international fleets of aircraft – meeting the most rigorous standards for ex-military aircraft in the world – Top Aces is uniquely positioned to serve the adversary air market worldwide,” said Didier Toussaint, the firm’s chief operating officer.

“We look forward to continue offering best-in-class service to the next generation of combat leaders across the globe,” he added.