OVERVIEW: The Bombardier Global 6000 operated by Germany is a long-range, high-endurance surveillance aircraft configured for signals intelligence (SIGINT) missions under the Pegasus program. Entering service in 2023, it provides the Bundeswehr with strategic airborne electromagnetic intelligence capabilities.

DETAILS: Germany’s Pegasus (Persistent German Airborne Surveillance System) program was launched to replace the retired Breguet Atlantique SIGINT aircraft and to close capability gaps in national-level electronic reconnaissance. The platform is based on the Bombardier Global 6000 business jet, selected for its range, altitude, and payload capacity, and modified with advanced SIGINT systems developed by Hensoldt. These aircraft are capable of intercepting, geolocating, and analyzing a wide range of radar and communication signals over long distances. The Global 6000 is powered by two Rolls-Royce BR710A2-20 turbofan engines, with a cruising speed of Mach 0.85 and a range of approximately 11,100 km. Missions include early warning, electronic order of battle mapping, and strategic threat monitoring.

The Pegasus-configured Global 6000 is equipped with Hensoldt's modular Kalaetron SIGINT system, integrating wideband receivers, antenna arrays, and onboard signal analysis systems. Kalaetron allows simultaneous detection and classification of multiple signal types across the electromagnetic spectrum. The aircraft features structural modifications including ventral and dorsal fairings to accommodate antenna installations and system cooling equipment.

TYPE: SIGINT Reconnaissance Aircraft

FUNCTION: Designed for strategic detection and analysis of radar and communication emissions to support national intelligence, early warning, and NATO-aligned situational awareness. Its long endurance and sensor precision enable persistent surveillance across wide areas.

NOTE:
IOC: 2012 (Global 6000), 2023 (German Pegasus SIGINT variant)
Manufacturer: Bombardier Aerospace (Canada), modified by Hensoldt (Germany)
Operators: Germany
Conflict used in: None as of 2025

SOURCE:
Bundeswehr: https://www.bundeswehr.de ; Hensoldt: https://www.hensoldt.net/news/pegasus-strengthens-german-signit-capabilities ; Bombardier: https://bombardier.com ; German MoD: https://www.bmvg.de/de/aktuelles/pegasus-aufklaerungssytem-beschaffung-2021-507103