Hi-tech advances on RAF Lossiemouth's radar

The new radar system for RAF Lossiemouth's Typhoon fighter jets will be 'future-proofed' so it can be updated quickly and easily.

The ECRS Mk2 is going to be the world's most capable fighter radar when it comes into service.

However it's also being designed to accommodate new technology and fresh information.

Aerospace engineering company Leonardo is working closely with the RAF to develop the radar system.

Ross Wilson, its head of engineering, said: "The ECRS Mk2 will use what we call mission-loadable elements that can be quickly uploaded.

"The aim is to make upgrading a radar much less complex than before – and more like downloading an app to your smartphone.

"It means the system can be updated in the field while out on operations."

The manner in which ECRS Mk2 is being developed also means less damage to the environment.

Less physical testing and test flights are required because of the use of data-driven technology.

This, in turn, means a reduced carbon footprint.

Ross believes a ‘digital first’ approach to design will be a key part of Leonardo's commitment to net zero carbon emissions from its UK operations by 2030.

He said: "Since the pandemic started, we and our partners are doing a lot more of our engineering in the digital world and travelling around the UK a lot less.

"We’re expecting this approach to stick, with the model of home/office work making the company a much more flexible place to work."

BAE Systems is also part of the team developing the new system.

Andy Flynn, its Typhoon capability delivery director, said: "By taking data from the real world we can create a digital twin to experiment with and validate performance.

"There will always be a need for flight testing to ensure the safety and quality of a product like the Typhoon's advanced new radar.

"However, we continue to challenge the way we do things to ensure we limit the impact on our environment as much as possible."

.