Advancements in Eurofighter Radar Development

The evolution of the new radar system for German and Spanish Eurofighter combat aircraft is accelerating, transitioning from initial ground testing to airborne trials slated for 2026. The Eurofighter Common Radar System Mark 1 (ECRS Mk1) consortium, comprising HENSOLDT and Indra, has commenced live operations testing of the radar. During this phase, the Mk1 Radar is equipped with cutting-edge hardware and the latest software version, enabling it to engage with live targets and cooperative scenarios, simulating authentic operational conditions and advancing the Mk1 Radar software.

Preliminary results showcase the enhanced robustness and performance of the Mk1 Radar’s hardware and software architecture, affirming the decisions made regarding the updated ECRS Mk1 Radar subsystems in 2024. This positive feedback reinforces the capabilities of the radar system for its operators.

“This significant advancement toward the 2027 delivery of ECRS Mk1 to Germany and Spain reflects the unwavering dedication of the ECRS Mk1 Industry Partners and the critical support from the German and Spanish customers for the ECRS Mk1 Programme. This milestone stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of Airbus, Indra, and HENSOLDT, marking a rewarding achievement for the entire team engaged in delivering superior air combat capabilities to the ECRS Mk1 Nations,” states Falko Firl, Head of Eurofighter Radar at HENSOLDT.

“Kicking off the testing phase is a pivotal milestone in equipping the Eurofighter with an Advanced Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar that boasts superior functionalities, further enhancing the aircraft’s air superiority for years to come. This radar is set to be one of the most advanced airborne radar systems in use, illustrating how longstanding collaboration among leading European companies can accelerate innovation and provide top-tier solutions for our Armed Forces,” comments Mónica Pérez Fernández, Eurofighter Programme Director at Indra.

The ECRS Mk1 (Eurofighter Common Radar System Mark 1) represents the next-generation radar for the air forces of Germany and Spain. Leveraging a multi-channel AESA and high-performance processing capabilities, ECRS Mk1 will significantly upgrade the operational strengths of the Eurofighter for both nations. Its architecture is designed to support a comprehensive spectrum of fighter missions, including Advanced Air-to-Air, High-Resolution Air-to-Ground, and both passive and active electronic warfare operations. The contract for ECRS Mk1 was established in 2020.