Hensoldt and Indra have marked a significant achievement with the completion of the first Eurofighter ECRS Mk1 radar units, which are equipped with cutting-edge Processor and Antenna Power Supply & Control (APSC) subsystems. This milestone was reached in an impressive timeframe of under 13 months, with the units now progressing through advanced qualification and flight testing phases. These tests include performance demonstrations aboard Germany’s ATRA Flying Testbed, showcasing the radar’s enhanced capabilities.
The radar’s upgraded hardware is designed to improve operational efficiency, allowing for faster mode switching and real-time adaptability to mission requirements. This advancement is particularly notable as it lays the groundwork for future autonomous operations and integration of artificial intelligence technologies. The updated processor architecture significantly enhances computing power and supports sophisticated signal processing, which is crucial for modern aerial combat scenarios.
In addition to its core capabilities, planned software upgrades will further expand the functionality of the ECRS Mk1. This includes incorporating air-to-ground mission capabilities and electronic warfare functionalities, thereby enabling task-based operations that aim to alleviate pilot workload while also enhancing overall system performance.
The ECRS Mk1 radar is equipped with a multi-channel receiver and broadband transmit-receive modules, which collectively contribute to high target recognition accuracy and rapid response times. The radar’s design supports advanced air-to-air engagements, high-resolution air-to-ground imaging, and both passive and active electronic warfare missions.
One of the standout features of the ECRS Mk1 is its impressive angular coverage, which is 50 percent greater than that of conventional fixed Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars. This enhanced coverage allows it to detect and track targets across a broader area without necessitating course changes for the aircraft.
Over the past year, the radar has achieved several key milestones. Notably, in December 2024, a Spanish Eurofighter Typhoon conducted its inaugural test flight incorporating the ECRS E-Scan radar, marking an important step in the operational integration of this technology. Furthermore, the German and Spanish defense authorities approved the integration of the upgraded APSC subsystems for the ECRS Mk1 in April 2024, signaling strong international collaboration in enhancing aerial defense capabilities.
