The upgrade programme for the Belgian Navy maritime patrol aircraft has been completed. The new MEDUSA® software suite and upgraded SLAR system are now fully operational.
OPTIMARE Systems GmbH has successfully completed the MEDUSA® upgrade programme for the Belgian Navy's maritime patrol aircraft. The programme, which began in 2023, involved the installation of the latest MEDUSA® software suite and a full upgrade of the Side-Looking Airborne Radar (SLAR) system.
The upgraded MEDUSA® platform brings the Belgian Navy's aircraft to the current software standard, introducing improved operator workflows, enhanced geo-referenced display capabilities, and updated sensor control interfaces. The new SLAR system delivers improved radar image quality and extended swath coverage compared to the previous installation.
The Belgian Navy has operated OPTIMARE sensor systems for maritime patrol and oil spill monitoring in the North Sea and English Channel for many years. The upgrade ensures continued operational effectiveness and extends the service life of the existing aircraft installation.
The programme was delivered on schedule and within budget, with acceptance testing completed at the Belgian Navy's operating base. OPTIMARE's engineering team provided on-site support throughout the installation and acceptance phase.
This upgrade is part of a broader pattern of OPTIMARE supporting existing operators with system modernisation programmes, ensuring that aircraft equipped with OPTIMARE sensors remain at the current operational standard.
