A programme of ground-based testing has been completed on a Eurofighter Typhoon test and evaluation aircraft equipped with the advanced new European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mk2 radar ahead of flight trials. The work was undertaken by engineers at BAE Systems’ flight testing facility in Warton, Lancashire, supported by teams from Leonardo UK, which has developed the radar at its Edinburgh and Luton sites. This included electromagnetic testing in a unique anechoic chamber. The radar will support RAF operations in the most challenging situations, equipping pilots with the ability to suppress enemy air defences using high-powered jamming and engage targets whilst beyond the reach of threats.
Embodiment of this prototype new radar into the test aircraft is a positive step on the continuous evolution of Typhoon’s control of the air capabilities, maintaining its sovereign Freedom of Action and preserving its technological advantage,” Group Captain D’Aubyn Typhoon Programme Director, Royal Air Force (RAF) said.
The Defence Equipment & Support agency announced 17 January 2024, that the Typhoon fighter jet is set to be equipped with one of the world’s most advanced radar systems ahead of initial flight trials, as part of a £2.35bn ($2.98bn) investment aimed at upgrading the capabilities of the Typhoon. The European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mk2 radar contracted for by UK Ministry of Defence’s procurement agency Defence Equipment and Support. The radar is produced by Leonardo, and allows the Typhoon to concurrently detect, identify, and track multiple air and ground targets while also engaging in electronic warfare tasks.
The Eurofighter Typhoon is a European multinational twin-engine, supersonic, canard delta wing, multirole fighter. The Typhoon was designed originally as an air-superiority fighter and is manufactured by a consortium of Airbus, BAE Systems and Leonardo that conducts the majority of the project through a joint holding company, Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH. 160 ordered by Royal Air Force, all of which had been delivered by September 2019. As of 21 August 2023, the RAF has 137 aircraft, with 102 in service. The Typhoon FGR.Mk 4 is a highly capable and extremely agile multi-role combat aircraft, capable of being deployed for the full spectrum of air operations, including air policing, peace support and high-intensity conflict.
