Airbus releases Eurofighter electronic combat role concept details

Airbus and its partners have unveiled details of the electronic combat role (ECR) version of the Eurofighter combat jet.

The company provided an insight into the new Eurofighter ECR concept at the ongoing International Fighter Conference 2019 event in Berlin, Germany.

The ECR concept is intended to expand the Eurofighter aircraft’s multi-role capabilities.

The role will also help increase the ‘survivability of coalition forces in hostile environments’, according to Airbus.

Airbus highlighted the importance of collaborative electronic warfare capabilities for armed forces to gain an edge in future combined air operations.

The team expects to make initial Eurofighter ECR capability ready by 2026. The role will be further developed for full integration into the future combat air system (FCAS) ecosystems.

Airbus said: “Eurofighter ECR will be able to provide passive emitter location, as well as active jamming of threats, and will offer a variety of modular configurations for electronic attack (EA) and suppression / destruction of enemy air defence (SEAD/DEAD).

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“Latest national escort jammer technology will ensure national control over features such as mission data and data analysis. The concept also features a new twin-seat cockpit configuration with a multi-function panoramic touch display and a dedicated mission cockpit for the rear-seat.”

Companies supporting Airbus in the Eurofighter ECR concept project include MBDA, Hensoldt, MTU, Rolls-Royce and Premium Aerotec.

Airbus is looking to propose the ECR variant to meet the German Air Force’s airborne electronic attack capability requirement.

The company is targeting Germany’s Tornado aircraft replacement project with the new Eurofighter ECR.