Typhoon next generation
The electronically-scanning European Common Radar System Mk2 (ECRS Mk2) is an advanced new radar capability which will strengthen the UK’s Typhoon fleet, further securing control of the air.
ECRS Mk2 provides Typhoon with a powerful electronic warfare technology, which enables Royal Air Force pilots to locate, identify and supress enemy air defences using high-powered jamming. With the new capability, pilots can engage hostile targets beyond the reach of threats - even when they’re looking in another direction - and operate inside the range of opposing air defences, remaining fully protected throughout.
ECRS Mk2 is a key part of a package of strategic upgrades to the Typhoon aircraft - known as the Phase 4 Enhancement (P4E) programme - which is set to ensure Typhoon’s new capabilities can be fully realised.
Technology taking flight
Working alongside our Eurofighter partner Leonardo UK, which develops and manufactures ECRS Mk2, we are bringing the radar in to service with the UK’s frontline fleet.
In 2024, we completed a series of flight trials from our combat air testing facility in Warton, Lancashire, following a period of ground-based testing, which saw a prototype radar embodied on to a test and evaluation aircraft. It also underwent a series of electromagnetic testing in a unique anechoic chamber.
These trials proved the game-changing capability which will replace the mechanically-scanning radar on the current RAF Typhoon’s and will allow jets to link up with future data-driven weapons to combat rapidly evolving air defences.
Sovereign capability
Typhoon’s advanced new radar is securing critical skills which sits at the heart of the UK’s combat air sector, a vital national asset.
The development work for ECRS Mk2 is securing 600 roles across the nation including more than 300 at Leonardo's site in Edinburgh, 100 in Luton and 120 at BAE Systems’ sites in Lancashire.
P4E, the package of software upgrade which will enable to harness the full potential of the new radar, employs a further 200 people across BAE Systems’ sites in Lancashire.