Berlin is set to acquire six Global 8000s, with options for an additional six aircraft, to serve as stand-off jammer platforms, Aviation Week reported.
The German defence procurement agency (Bundesamt für Ausrüstung, Informationstechnik und Nutzung der Bundeswehr - BAAINBw) is preparing to issue a formal request for proposals covering the initial batch of six aircraft. The fleet could ultimately expand to twelve Global 8000s. Citing the urgency of fielding the capability, the agency aims to award a contract before year-end.
Germany initially evaluated the A400M before opting for a business jet platform, with the Global 6500 and Global 8000 emerging as the leading candidates. The Global 8000 was selected because of superior performance and a larger airframe.
Although Bombardier Business Aircraft manufactures the platform, both Airbus and German defence and security company HENSOLDT are expected to compete for the role of prime contractor on the airborne electronic attack programme. Some government officials have advocated cooperation between the two companies. The aircraft are expected to enter service around 2031.
Separately, Germany has three Global 6000s on order under the PEGASUS (Persistent German Airborne Surveillance System) programme. The first aircraft arrived at Hamburg in late 2025, where HENSOLDT and Lufthansa Technik will equip it with airborne signals intelligence capabilities. PEGASUS is scheduled for completion in 2028, with delivery to the Luftwaffe expected a year earlier.
The Luftwaffe further operates three Global 5000s and Global 6000s in government and VIP transport roles.
