The United Kingdom’s (UK) Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded BAE Systems a £870 Million ($1.1 Billion approx.) contract to deliver a new radar to enhance the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) Typhoon fighter fleet and strengthen the aircraft’s control of the airspace whilst providing cutting-edge electronic warfare capabilities.
The contract, awarded by the Ministry of Defence to BAE Systems, will see further development of technology and integration work on the European Common Radar System (ECRS) Mk2 radar by BAE Systems and Leonardo UK.
The work is expected to lead to initial flight testing in 2024.
BAE Systems leads the overall design, development, manufacture and upgrade of the Typhoon fighter aircraft for the UK and Leonardo is the lead for the aircraft’s main sensing and survivability systems including its radar and defensive aids sub-system.
The contract is part of the UK Government announcement made in July 2022, to invest £2.35 billion in the continued technology advancements in Typhoon capabilities, as recognition of its long-term role supporting national security and defence priorities.
About Typhoon Jets
Typhoon is a highly capable and extremely agile multi-role combat aircraft. It is capable of being deployed for the full spectrum of air operations, including air policing, peace support and high-intensity conflict. The RAF Typhoons are deployed alongside F-35B Lightning II to provide frontline capability for the UK.
Brief Specifications:
Max speed: Mach 2.0
Thrust: 90kN from each of the two. EUROJET EJ200 turbofans
Length: 15.96m
Max altitude: Above 55,000ft
Wingspan: 10.95m
