Deal for ‘game-changing’ radar secures 120 BAE Systems jobs at Warton

The Eurofighter Typhoon in the "future battlespace" Pic: BAE Systems — The Eurofighter Typhoon in the “future battlespace” Pic: BAE Systems

A £317m contract to develop a “game-changing” radar for the Royal Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoons will sustain 120 jobs at BAE Systems in Warton.

BAE Systems and Leonardo have been awarded the contract, which will sustain more than 600 jobs across the country.

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A spokesperson for BAE Systems said the new technology will give UK Typhoons a “world-leading Electronic Warfare capability” in addition to traditional radar functions.

“It will equip RAF pilots with the ability to locate, identify and suppress enemy air defences using high-powered jamming. They can engage targets whilst beyond the reach of threats – even when they’re looking in another direction – and operate inside the range of opposing air defences, remaining fully protected throughout.

“This game-changing capability will replace the mechanically-scanning radar that RAF Typhoons are currently equipped with and will ensure the UK retains the freedom to deliver air power wherever and whenever it is needed.

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“It also enables the Typhoons to link up with future data-driven weapons to combat rapidly evolving air defences, ensuring that UK Typhoons can continue to dominate the battlespace for years to come.”

BAE Systems is the UK’s prime contractor for the Typhoon. It will integrate the new sensor, which will be developed by Leonardo, the UK’s defence electronics champion.

Both companies are currently working as part of a development programme alongside Eurofighter partners in Germany, Spain and Italy.

Eurofighter Typhoon alongside the Tempest concept model at Warton Pic: BAE Systems

Andrea Thompson, Managing Director Europe and International for BAE Systems’ Air sector, said: “This capability will allow Typhoon to take its place in the future battlespace for decades to come, maturing key technologies for future combat air systems and ensuring interoperability.

“As well as securing highly skilled jobs, it will sustain the key skills needed to keep the UK at the forefront of the global Combat Air sector. We look forward to continuing to work alongside the Eurofighter nations and our industry partners to ensure Typhoon delivers the needs of today and answers the challenges of tomorrow.”

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