The contract, granted by BAE Systems to Leonardo, involves the advancement of the ECRS Mk2 radar, upgrading the jet’s air control capabilities and providing electronic warfare capabilities.
Leonardo, a leading aerospace and defense company, has been awarded a contract to develop a groundbreaking new radar system that will enhance the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) Typhoon fleet’s capabilities. The contract, granted by BAE Systems to Leonardo, involves the further advancement of the European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mk2 radar, which will revolutionize the aircraft’s air control capabilities and provide additional electronic warfare capabilities. BAE Systems is responsible for the overall design, development, manufacture, and upgrade of the Typhoon aircraft, while Leonardo leads the development of the main sensing and survivability systems, including the radar.
The contract is part of the UK Government’s commitment to investing £2.35 billion in the continued technological advancement of the Typhoon, recognizing its long-term role in supporting national security and defense priorities. The new radar system will enable the RAF Typhoons to detect, identify, and track various targets on land and at sea simultaneously, significantly enhancing their air power capabilities.
A state-of-the-art prototype radar system, developed and manufactured by Leonardo in Edinburgh and Luton, is currently undergoing specialized testing at BAE Systems’ combat air site in Warton, Lancashire. This testing will pave the way for initial flight testing in 2024.
Mark Hamilton, Managing Director Electronics UK, Leonardo said, “The ECRS MK2 Radar programme will deliver world leading capabilities developed by our skilled engineers in both Edinburgh and Luton. We are extremely proud to be contributing in such a way to the safety and security of the United Kingdom as well as ensuring that the UK is equipped to play a central role in next generation combat air programmes. ECRS MK2 will not only provide critical capability to Typhoon but will also develop and sustain critical skills relevant to other future developments and core programmes in the air domain.”
The Typhoon aircraft is a highly capable and agile multi-role combat aircraft that can be deployed for a wide range of air operations, including air policing, peace support, and high-intensity conflict. The RAF Typhoons work alongside F-35B Lightning II aircraft to provide frontline capabilities for the RAF.
Mark Hamilton, Managing Director Electronics UK, Leonardo said, “The ECRS MK2 Radar programme will deliver world leading capabilities developed by our skilled engineers in both Edinburgh and Luton. We are extremely proud to be contributing in such a way to the safety and security of the United Kingdom as well as ensuring that the UK is equipped to play a central role in next generation combat air programmes. ECRS MK2 will not only provide critical capability to Typhoon but will also develop and sustain critical skills relevant to other future developments and core programmes in the air domain.”
The development of the ECRS MK2 radar system underscores the commitment of Leonardo, BAE Systems, and the UK Government to advancing cutting-edge technologies and maintaining a strong sovereign combat air capability. The collaboration between these industry leaders ensures that the RAF can maintain its advantage and protect the vital ecosystem that supports the country’s combat air capabilities. The progress made in this radar development program will not only enhance the Typhoon fleet’s capabilities but also contribute to the UK’s future combat air strategy and the advancement of critical skills in the air domain.
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With the upcoming flight testing and subsequent integration of the ECRS MK2 radar system into the RAF Typhoon fleet, the UK’s defense capabilities will be further strengthened, ensuring the country’s readiness and effectiveness in addressing evolving threats and maintaining its position as a global leader in the aerospace and defense industry.
