Airbus has successfully rolled out support communications to German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) troops deployed to military bases in Lithuania. Labelled “Connect-D”, Airbus now supplies telephone, internet and media services to a total of 15 deployed Bundeswehr units around the world, including Mali, Iraq, Djibouti, Afghanistan, Kosovo, Cyprus and Lithuania.

The launch of Connect-D at the Lithuanian bases of Rukla and Pabrade was performed as part of a framework contract awarded by the Bundeswehr in 2015. This framework contract ensures that soldiers have free connectivity during operations and exercises outside Germany to stay in contact with family and friends. Mobile systems will also be made available for smaller contingents and observer missions.

“Connect-D provides an important service to deployed Bundeswehr soldiers. It allows them to make telephone calls, surf the internet or make video calls free of charge with their own devices. The service is available in accommodation areas, at support facilities and internet cafés during exercises and operations outside Germany,” said Stefan Gramolla, Head of Delivery Germany for Secure Communications at Airbus Defence and Space.

Airbus has been providing Bundeswehr troops with support communications since July 2011. A service launched especially for naval units in 2015 enabled personal calls while out at sea. In addition to telephone services, internet services are available while docked in ports.

Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2016, it generated revenues of € 67 billion and employed a workforce of around 134,000. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners from 100 to more than 600 seats.

Airbus is also a European leader providing tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, as well as Europe’s number one space enterprise and the world’s second largest space business. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.