UK Commits £204M to Upgrade RAF Typhoon Radar
The UK has invested £204.6 million to begin production of the ECRS Mk2 radar for RAF Typhoon jets. Developed by Leonardo and integrated by BAE Systems, the new radar enhances electronic warfare and SEAD capabilities.
Following successful flight trials, the system will support 600 jobs across the UK and is set to enter production in 2025, with first deliveries expected by 2028. The upgrade is part of the Eurofighter Phase 4 Enhancement and a key element of the UK’s defence modernisation strategy.
MoD Awards £114M Submarine Systems Support Contract
The UK MoD has awarded a £114 million contract to Scott Aerospace to support the Royal Navy’s submarine steam and mechanical systems.
The three-year deal, with extension options to 2030, covers spares, repairs, and key components like turbines and valves. Work will be based in Portsmouth and Faslane.
UK Opens £25M Artillery Plant in Sheffield
Defence Secretary John Healey has opened a new £25 million BAE Systems factory in Sheffield, restoring UK gun barrel production. The site will support M777 howitzer manufacturing, create 200 skilled jobs, and strengthen the UK’s defence industrial base.
It’s part of broader efforts to boost artillery capacity and support Ukraine.
Serco Wins £24M USAF Support Contracts in UK
Serco has won three contracts worth £24 million to continue supporting the US Air Force in the UK. The agreements cover:
Transport and supply services at RAF Alconbury, Molesworth, and Croughton (up to 5.5 years),
Aircraft fuelling and ramp services at RAF Fairford (up to 5 years),
Security services at RAF Blenheim Crescent (up to 2 years).
Serco has supported USAFE since 2003, providing cargo, personnel transport, vehicle maintenance, and supply operations across UK bases.
UK MoD Contracts GA-ASI for Protector Drone Support
The UK Ministry of Defence has signed a sustainment contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) to support the RAF’s Protector RG Mk1 drones. Known as the UK Protector Availability and Support Solution (UK PASS), the deal covers maintenance, training systems, and ground control stations.
Part of GA-ASI’s shared SkyGuardian Global Support Solutions, the contract uses pooled resources to cut costs and streamline logistics across MQ-9B users. The deal marks the transition from development to operational readiness for the RAF’s Protector fleet.
Marshall Joins Northrop on UK Air Defence Bid
Marshall will partner with Northrop Grumman to support its bid for the British Army’s next-gen Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) system. Under a new MoU, Marshall will provide engineering and production support, drawing on its expertise in deployable military systems.
Northrop aims to adapt its proven US Army air defence tech (FAAD and IBCS) for UK needs, offering a fully integrated, cost-effective solution. The partnership emphasizes domestic capability and rapid deployment to counter evolving threats.
Collins Expands Aircraft Electrification in UK & France
Collins Aerospace has opened a new engineering centre in Wolverhampton and an elecTRAS production line in Colomiers to advance electric thrust reverser systems.
These systems, already used on the Airbus A350, cut aircraft weight by up to 20%, improving fuel efficiency and maintenance. The move enhances Collins’ global electrification capabilities.