Tornado GR4

The Tornado GR4 is a variable geometry (swing-wing) two-seat, day or night all–weather attack aircraft, capable of delivering a variety of ordnance. The aircraft can fly at low level using terrain following radar when poor weather prevents visual flight.

The aircraft is also equipped with forward looking infra-red radar and is compatible with night-vision goggles, making it a capable platform for night operations. The Tornado is equipped with an integrated global positioning system / inertial navigation system that can be updated from visual or radar inputs. The Tornado can select targets for Paveway laser guided weapons through thermal- imaging airborne laser designation and has a ground mapping radar to identify targets for the delivery of conventional ordnance.

All GR4 aircraft can carry the air launched anti-radiation missile (ALARM) which homes in on the emitted radiation of radar systems and can be used to suppress enemy air defences. The Tornado is being equipped with both Storm Shadow and Brimstone missiles. The Storm Shadow will allow the Tornado to make precision strikes in poor weather at greater distance from the target area whilst Brimstone will provide the Tornado with an effective anti-armour weapon. For self protection the Tornado GR4 is normally armed with two Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles, together with chaff and flare and countermeasures pods.

The aircraft is also equipped with an integral 27mm Mauser cannon capable of firing 1700 rounds per minute. When used in the reconnaissance role the GR4 can carry the VICON pod to provide detailed reconnaissance imagery, though this is being replaced by the RAPTOR pod, providing an even greater day and night capability.

The Tornado GR4 is currently operated from two bases. The Operational Conversion Unit, XV(R) Squadron is based at RAF Lossiemouth, in addition to 12, 14 and 617 Squadrons. RAF Marham is the home to IIX(B) and 31 Squadrons. II(AC) and 13 Squadron, also based at RAF Marham operate the GR4A, which is equipped with the Tornado infrared reconnaissance system providing a low-level tactical reconnaissance capability

Military Air Solutions is delivering an availability contract to the RAF Tornado fleet that will boost the aircraft's availability for frontline operations while considerably reducing cost to the taxpayer.  The contract, known as ATTAC (Availability Transformation: Tornado Aircraft Contract), is potentially worth in the region of £1.5 billion and will save the MoD £510 million over the initial ten years of the programme.  Military Air Solutions work in a partnered approach with the UK MoDs Defence Logistics Organisation and the Royal Air Force and includes on-aircraft maintenance of the GR4 fleet, spares support, technical support and training.

Military Air Solutions has worked with the Defence Logistics Organisation and Royal Air Force on a series of pilot programmes to build confidence that ATTAC will deliver and they have already demonstrated the considerable benefits of working together e.g. Combined Maintenance & Upgrade has reduced traditional maintenance manhours by 50% and support tot he secondary power system has been undertaken at 23% less than the historical costs.

Under the ATTAC service, MAS takes responsibility for 'depth' support at RAF Marham will combine this with a Capability Development and Sustainment Service which is a structured and cost-effective approach to inserting new capability into the aircraft, to maintain the aircraft's war-fighting effectiveness throughout its service life.  Overall the company will be responsible for ensuring the required aircraft at an agreed capability are provided to the frontline when they are needed.

Specifications

• Powerplant: Two RB199 Mk 103 afterburning engines
• Wingspan: 8.6m to 13.91m
• Height: 5.95m Length: 16.72m
• Max Speed: Mach 2.2
• Max Altitude: 50,000 ft
• Crew: Pilot and Weapons Systems Operator