Spanish defence and technology company Indra will provide a significant capability boost to Germany’s planned new Eurofighter procurement with the integration of core elements of the Eurofighter Common Radar System (ECRS) MK1 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar.

The deal which was announced on July 8, was valued at €100m and intended to provide German Eurofighters with multi-function sensor capabilities for tracking several close-range targets while simultaneously scanning the airspace hundreds of kilometres away for potential threats.

In addition, as a member of the EuroDASS consortium, Indra will provide the DASS protection sub-system. This element alerts the pilot in the event of the detection of threats to the aircraft and activates different countermeasures.

The new radar, developed with German sensor solutions provider Hensoldt, will equip Germany’s forthcoming 38 Tranche 4 Eurofighters. The deal, known as the Quadriga programme, will see Airbus provide 30 single-seat and eight twin-seat Eurofighters, securing production of the type through to 2030.

The Quadriga programme contract also includes the supply and integration of up to 14 additional sets of avionics equipment for different sub-systems of the platform. The German Luftwaffe is now set to operate the Eurofighter until around 2060.

Indra’s stated that its participation in the evolution of the Eurofighter will complement its role as the Spanish coordinator of the NGWS/FCAS Future Air Combat System development programme.