Typhoon fighter jets will be fitted with the world’s most advanced radar – part of a £2.35 billion investment at the Royal International Air Tattoo

The Eurofighter Typhoon’s ability to control the air will be further enhanced by the European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mk 2 radar, which brings a cutting-edge electronic warfare capability that will enable the aircraft to simultaneously detect, identify, and track multiple targets in the air and on the ground.
With the ability to engage targets while being out of harm’s way and disable enemy air defences using powerful jamming, it will enable missions in the most difficult circumstances.
It’s critical that the UK maintains its leadership in military capabilities to be able to defend and deter, according to Jeremy Quin, Minister for Defence Procurement.
These technological advancements will keep the Eurofighter Typhoon’s cutting-edge capabilities and support the development of the Future Combat Air System.
The effort also guarantees that later in the decade, the aircraft can incorporate more capabilities and armaments to combat new threats up until and including 2040.
The most modern mission computer, cockpit interface, upgraded navigation system, and signal jamming technology are added to Typhoon as a result.
The announcement made today ensures that the advanced technical skills and expertise required to develop, integrate, and deliver these complex projects remain in the UK and are readily available to support the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program.
ECRS Mk2 will be put into service toward the end of the decade.
The radar, which was designed by Leonardo UK in Edinburgh and Luton and was integrated by BAE Systems in Warton, is a shining example of the UK’s cutting-edge onshore technology.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, head of the air staff, stated that the ECRS Mk2 radar is a game-changing improvement for our Typhoon aircraft and a step change in capability.
In the face of threats that are rapidly changing against the UK and our allies, it will guarantee that Typhoon remains prepared and capable of defending our skies in the future.
More than 20,000 employment in the UK are still supported by the Typhoon initiative.
More than 1,300 jobs are being maintained by the most recent investments, which were negotiated by Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), including at Leonardo UK’s locations in Edinburgh, Luton, and Lincoln, BAE Systems’ locations in Warton and Samlesbury, Lancashire, and Kent, Meggitt in Stevenage, and II-VI in County Durham.
The integration of ECRS Mk2 on Typhoon provides the RAF with unmatched radar capacity for the ensuing ten years, according to Sir Simon Bollom, CEO of DE&S.
It is a superb illustration of how DE&S can work together to acquire technology that will win battles and maintain our armed forces one step ahead of their adversaries.
The announcement builds on the Defence Command Paper and Integrated Review, which were supported by an additional £24 billion in funds over four years for defence.
With the help of this cash, it will be possible to make long-term investments in crucial competencies while also adjusting to a more risky and competitive world.