The ECRS Mk1 is the next-generation radar for Eurofighter aircraft used by the German and Spanish air forces. Built around a multi-channel AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) and a high-end processor, it enhances performance across a wide range of missions including advanced air-to-air, high-resolution air-to-ground, and both passive and active electronic warfare.
“In less than 13 months, we have completed the production of the first radars with this new hardware and a comprehensive assessment phase is well advanced,” said Dr. William Gautier, Technical Director Eurofighter Radar at HENSOLDT. “The new APSC and Processor give Mk1 a significant boost in performance, both for ultra-fast mode switching, real-time mission flexibility, and future autonomous task-based and AI-supported operations.”
Dr. Gautier added that the new hardware is “integrated with a robustly refactored software that enables full exploitation of AESA multi-channel technology,” and that its “modern architecture and design” ensure long-term sustainability for customers. The Mk1 Step 1 radar is now undergoing qualification and flight testing onboard Germany’s ATRA Flying Testbed.
Borja Miño, Technical Director Eurofighter Radar at Indra, highlighted improvements brought by the updated processor architecture. “These enhancements not only improve current performance but also provide the necessary headroom for future software evolutions and sensor fusion capabilities,” he said.
HENSOLDT and Indra plan to begin series production of the Mk1 Step 1 in summer 2025, following evaluations and testing in the first half of the year. The ECRS Mk1 will be integrated into Eurofighter Quadriga aircraft at Airbus Defence and Space in Manching, Germany.
The Mk1 Step 1 will initially provide robust air-to-air capability for the German and Spanish air forces. Future software upgrades will expand its multi-role functions, including air-to-ground and electronic warfare capabilities, enabling task-based operation to reduce pilot workload and improve system performance.
