RAF Typhoons to Receive Advanced ECRS Mk2 Radar System

The British Royal Air Force’s Typhoon aircraft are set to receive a significant upgrade with the installation of the European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mk2, a sophisticated radar system being developed by BAE Systems and Leonardo UK. Defence Procurement Minister, Maria Eagle, announced that the first flight featuring the new radar is expected within the coming weeks, marking a crucial milestone for the programme.

ECRS Mk2 is renowned for its cutting-edge capabilities, featuring a multi-functional array that can conduct traditional radar functions such as search and targeting. Additionally, it is equipped to perform electronic warfare tasks, enabling the Typhoon to counteract enemy radars and communication systems by disrupting, deceiving, or disabling them.

The upgraded radar system will provide the Typhoon with enhanced capabilities to simultaneously detect, identify, and track multiple targets both in the air and on the ground. This advancement grants greater operational flexibility during missions, as well as extended range missile guidance, allowing missiles to maintain accuracy over longer distances.

A notable feature of the ECRS Mk2 is its capability to operate continuously, even in the event of component failures. The system is designed to degrade gracefully rather than shutting down completely, with backup or duplicate elements ready to take over should a part fail. Furthermore, its ability to multitask means that air-to-air, air-to-ground, and electronic warfare functions can be performed concurrently without the need to switch modes.

According to Eagle, the radar program has reached several key achievements over the past months. These include passing the critical design review of the production radar system in June, and completing prototype ground testing on a Typhoon trials aircraft in July. The ECRS Mk2 is anticipated to be operational on RAF Typhoons by the end of the decade.