The state-of-the-art ECRS Mk2 radar will deliver enhanced electronic warfare capability, enabling the aircraft to detect, identify and track multiple targets in the air and on the ground. The funding will support around 1,300 jobs across UK industry, including 400 roles at Leonardo and more than 120 at BAE Systems, mainly in Scotland and the North West of England.
Richard Hamilton, Managing Director for Air Operations at BAE Systems Air, said: “The Typhoon programme is a fundamental pillar of the UK’s national defence and security. Operating at the heart of NATO operations, Typhoon aircraft provide air policing along Europe’s eastern flank.” He added: “The continued investment in Typhoon capability is crucial and ensures we’re able to maximise the UK’s investment in the aircraft and accelerate combat air technologies critical for defence capabilities.”
John Healey, the UK Secretary of State for Defence, said: “Our Typhoon fleet is the backbone of UK and NATO air defence, operated across Europe by the Royal Air Force and our allies to protect our skies and security.” He added: “As the threats we face increase, and as Russian drones continue to strike Ukraine and violate NATO airspace, this cutting-edge radar capability will keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad for many years to come.”
BAE Systems and Leonardo UK will lead delivery of 38 ECRS Mk2 radars for integration onto the full fleet of Tranche 3 Typhoon aircraft, with the radar expected to enter RAF service by the end of the decade. The radar is developed and manufactured by Leonardo in Edinburgh and Luton, integrated by BAE Systems in Lancashire, and forms part of a programme that supports more than 20,000 UK jobs annually and generates £1.4 billion in exports each year, with total export sales exceeding £30 billion to date.
