HENSOLDT and Indra Complete First ECRS Mk1 Radar with Enhanced Processor and Power System for Eurofighter

The development of modern combat aircraft relies heavily on cutting-edge radar systems, and the Eurofighter Typhoon is no exception. In a major milestone for European defence aviation, HENSOLDT and Indra — two of Europe’s leading defence technology companies — have successfully finalised the production of the first ECRS Mk1 radars equipped with upgraded hardware subsystems. These improvements mark a significant step forward for the radar capabilities of German and Spanish Eurofighter fleets.

What is the ECRS Mk1?

The ECRS Mk1 (European Common Radar System) is the latest generation radar being developed for Eurofighter aircraft. It uses Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, which allows the radar beam to be steered electronically rather than mechanically. This gives the aircraft quicker scanning speeds, better tracking of multiple targets, and improved resistance to jamming.

What’s New in the Upgraded Mk1?

In April 2024, military customers from Germany and Spain approved upgrades to the ECRS Mk1 as part of the Mk1 Step 1 configuration. The main enhancements include:

• A new high-performance Processor

• An upgraded Antenna Power Supply & Control (APSC) unit

These hardware upgrades have been integrated with modern, refactored software to fully utilise the advanced AESA multi-channel technology. The improvements result in better radar performance across various missions:

• Air-to-air engagements

• High-resolution air-to-ground strikes

• Passive and active electronic warfare

Why Is This Important?

According to Dr. William Gautier, Technical Director for Eurofighter Radar at HENSOLDT, the new hardware enables:

• Ultra-fast mode switching

• Real-time mission flexibility

• Preparation for AI-supported and autonomous operations in future combat scenarios

This flexibility means that Eurofighter pilots can rapidly adapt their radar to different threats or mission requirements without returning to base for system changes.

Additionally, the upgraded processor architecture provides extra capability for future software improvements and sensor fusion technologies, where data from various sensors onboard is combined for a more accurate and complete picture of the battlespace.

Current Status and What’s Next

The first radar units with these enhancements have completed production in just 13 months and are now undergoing qualification and flight testing onboard Germany’s ATRA Flying Testbed aircraft. Once this assessment phase is complete, series production is scheduled to begin in summer 2025.

The ECRS Mk1 Step 1 radar will initially focus on strengthening air-to-air combat capabilities for the German and Spanish air forces. However, it is designed for long-term versatility. Future software upgrades will unlock multi-role functionality, such as air-to-ground attack modes and advanced electronic warfare tools. This will enable the system to operate in task-based modes, reducing pilot workload while improving operational performance.

Technical Highlights:

• Radar Type: Multi-channel AESA radar

• Key Upgrades: High-performance processor and enhanced APSC unit

• Mission Capabilities: Air-to-air, high-resolution air-to-ground, passive & active electronic warfare

• Future-Ready: AI-supported operation, sensor fusion, autonomous task-based functions

• Testing: Ongoing on Germany’s ATRA Flying Testbed

• Production Start: Summer 2025 for Mk1 Step 1

The successful finalisation of the first ECRS Mk1 radar with upgraded hardware is a major step forward for the Eurofighter programme. It not only boosts the aircraft’s current combat abilities but also lays a strong foundation for future developments in electronic warfare and AI-assisted operations. With full integration planned for new Quadriga Eurofighters in Germany, this advanced radar promises to enhance European air defence capabilities for decades to come.