The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded BAE Systems a £454 million contract to produce 38 European Common Radar System Mk2 (ECRS Mk2) units for the Royal Air Force’s Tranche 3 Eurofighter Typhoons. The radars will improve detection and engagement against airborne and ground targets and mark a significant upgrade under the £2.35 billion Eurofighter modernization program. Leonardo will manufacture the radar sensors in Edinburgh and Luton, with BAE’s Lancashire site managing aircraft integration. Entry into service is expected by the end of the decade. The contract follows a major export deal with Turkey for 20 jets and positions the RAF to maintain a modernized Typhoon fleet ahead of the planned transition to the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).
