BAE Systems wins £453.5m MoD contract for Typhoon radar

BAE Systems has won a £453.5m contract from the Ministry of Defence that will support more than 120 jobs in the region.

The work is on a new advanced radar for UK Typhoon aircraft, the ECRS Mk2, which will give the jets enhanced electronic warfare capability so they can detect, identify and track several targets in the air and on the ground.

The contract will directly support 1,300 jobs around the UK, including 400 at Leonardo and more than 120 at BAE Systems in the North West and Scotland.

Richard Hamilton, managing director – Europe & International in BAE Systems’ Air sector, said: “The Typhoon programme is a fundamental pillar of the UK’s national defence and security. Operating at the heart of NATO operations, Typhoon aircraft provide air policing along Europe’s eastern flank.

“The continued investment in Typhoon capability is crucial and ensures we’re able to maximise the UK’s investment in the aircraft and accelerate combat air technologies critical for defence capabilities.”

John Healey, Secretary of State for Defence, said: “Our Typhoon fleet is the backbone of UK and NATO air defence, operated across Europe by the Royal Air Force and our allies to protect our skies and security. As the threats we face increase, and as Russian drones continue to strike Ukraine and violate NATO airspace, this cutting-edge radar capability will keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad for many years to come.”

The Typhoon programme supports more than 20,000 jobs around the country each year. In October, Türkiye signed a deal worth around £5.4bn for 20 jets.