UK Awards Contract for ECRS Mk2 Radar Production

The UK Ministry of Defense (MoD) announced the award of a of £453 million contract to manufacture and integrate European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mk2 units onto RAF Tranche 3 Typhoon aircraft. The contract was awarded to BAE Systems, which will integrate the radar into the Typhoon’s avionics, and its primary teammates Leonardo UK and Parker Meggitt. Leonardo UK will manufacture the radars at its Edinburgh and Luton facilities, and Parker Meggitt is providing the radomes.

The latest order covers production of 38 new radars, as well as modification of two existing test units to a production configuration. Deliveries are scheduled to begin around 2030.

The ECRS Mk2’s AESA architecture enables it to perform multiple roles as a radar, ESM sensor and electronic attack system, which significantly improves the Tranche 3 Typhoon’s offensive capabilities.

The UK MoD is yet to decide on radar upgrades for its Tranche 2 Typhoon’s. The Italian Air Force also will operate the ECRS Mk2 on its 24 new Eurofighters. – J. Knowles