Leonardo has signed a contract to complete development of the new radar for the Royal Air Force's (RAF) Typhoon fleet, which will transform the aircraft's ability to patrol the airspace, while providing other advanced self-protection capabilities.
The contract, awarded by BAE Systems to Leonardo, will see further development of technology and integration work on the European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mk2 radar by Leonardo and BAE Systems. The latter leads the overall design, development, production and upgrade of the Typhoon aircraft for the United Kingdom; Leonardo is responsible for the main detection and survival systems, including the radar, the self-protection suite and the infrared search and track system.
The contract forms part of the UK's wider announcement in July 2022 to invest £2,35 billion in the Typhoon's continued technological advancement, in recognition of its long-term role in supporting national security and defence. . The new sensor will ensure that RAF aircraft can simultaneously detect, identify and track multiple targets on land and at sea, allowing for increased air power capabilities.
A prototype of the radar, developed and manufactured by Leonardo at its Edinburgh and Luton facilities, is currently undergoing specialist testing at a facility within BAE Systems' Warton site in Lancashire. The first flight tests of the system are planned for 2024.
Mark Hamilton, Managing Director Electronics UK, Leonardo, commented: “The ECRS MK2 program will deliver key capabilities, developed by our experienced engineers in Edinburgh and Luton. We are proud to contribute to the UK's safety and security, as well as being able to ensure that the country is able to play a central role in next generation combat air programmes. The ECRS MK2, in fact, will not only provide critical functionalities to the Typhoon, but will also develop and support essential capabilities relevant to other fundamental programs in the field of the air domain”.
Andrea Thompson, Managing Director – Europe & International, BAE Systems Air, said: “The Typhoon is a remarkable aircraft which continues to provide crucial support to defense and security operations around the world, including at NATO level and in Eastern Europe. Continued evolution as a combat air platform ensures the RAF maintains its capability advantage and protects the UK ecosystem engaged in the programme. Support and enhancement of technical expertise is critical to the future UK combat air strategy”.
The Typhoon is an extremely capable and agile multi-role fighter aircraft capable of being deployed across the full spectrum of air operations including patrols, peacekeeping support and high-intensity conflict. RAF Typhoons are deployed alongside the F-35B Lightning II to provide front line capabilities to the Armed Forces.
