BAE Systems is gearing up for an exciting period of flight-testing for the Eurofighter Typhoon, with a range of enhancements on the horizon. The company is set to test the Leonardo UK ECRS Mk2 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, BAE’s Striker II helmet-mounted display, and a new replacement mission computer in the coming weeks.
The AESA radar, which will also support electronic attack applications, is scheduled to enter operational use in 2030 and will be integrated into 40 Tranche 3 Typhoons operated by the UK Royal Air Force. BAE received a £40 million production contract for the Striker II helmet from the UK Ministry of Defence last September, with hopes of securing additional orders from other operators.
In addition to these enhancements, BAE is developing a new unified mission computer with significantly more computing power than the current system used on the Eurofighter. The company is also exploring the integration of other technologies, such as a large-area display, for potential future upgrades.
With ongoing deliveries to Qatar and potential follow-on orders from Saudi Arabia, as well as interest from other countries like Egypt, Kuwait, Poland, and Turkey, BAE is optimistic about the future of the Eurofighter program. The company is actively pursuing additional orders to secure production activities until 2031 and is leading the UK’s involvement in the Global Combat Air Programme.
As the Eurofighter program continues to evolve and expand, BAE Systems remains at the forefront of innovation in the aerospace industry, with exciting developments expected to be unveiled at the upcoming Farnborough air show in July.