Powering the future
The evolution of Typhoon draws upon the expertise of BAE Systems’ engineers together with our Eurofighter partners, Airbus and Leonardo, ensuring its reputation for performance, reliability, availability and survivability. Behind these capabilities sits powerful mission computers, sensors and displays which our teams are constantly evolving to ensure the aircraft is ready for the future.
A key part of this work is a major upgrade of the new, cutting-edge mission system, the Unified Mission Computer, which are being trialled at BAE Systems’ sites in Lancashire. Developed in just 18 months, it boasts the latest multi-core processors, which are 200 times more powerful than the existing Typhoon processors.
The future in focus
When it comes to making a decision in a fast jet, every split-second counts. That is why we are pioneering a new Large Area Display ready for Typhoon’s cockpit of the future. BAE Systems engineers have matured a new 12 x 22 inch display, a similar size to a desktop monitor, to replace the existing three 6 x 6 inch multifunction head-down displays, making the most of the largest real estate of any modern fighter jet cockpit.
As advanced new radar, sensors and systems brings huge volumes of new data to the pilot’s fingertips, this display will allow them to view it quickly and simply, giving them a critical advantage over their adversary.
The 'Medulla' mindset
When it started in 2021, Project Medulla was focused on integrating a new mission system for Eurofighter Typhoon.
What began as something niche has redefined how new capability is being delivered for the likes of Typhoon, where speed and agility are transforming the old way. In an arena where development cycles can often be measured in years, this work was delivered at pace, with the team moving from initial concept to proof of concept in just 18 months.
But Medulla’s legacy is not solely a redesign of Typhoon’s complex mission systems, it was done in a way that will de-risk technologies and create new ways of working which form the development roadmap through to sixth generation platforms and beyond.
It’s not just a change of technology — Medulla has now evolved into a broader philosophy, driving how we design, test, and deliver next-generation capability. It is a way of working that accelerates how we can mature technologies.Paul Smith, Head of Typhoon Strategy Delivery, BAE Systems