Farnborough 16 July 2014 11:35
Finmeccanica – Selex ES has been awarded a multi-million Euro contract to design, develop and deliver a Common Jamming Pod (CJP) for use with the Royal Air Force (RAF).
The Common Jamming Pod will restore and sustain the RF self-protection capability of the Tornado GR Mk4 through to the end of its operational life.
The programme is based on the fast-track rework of existing Skyshadow-2 pods to meet current and anticipated radar threats. The CJP will retain the distinctive outline of the Skyshadow pod, but an overhaul will take place within the shell. Enhancements will include a replacement of the entire receiver chain, the introduction of a digital control unit and a digital techniques generator as well as an update to the TWT transmitters. In addition, two Towed Radar Decoys, (TRDs) identical to those currently in service with the Eurofighter Typhoon, will be incorporated into the rear of the pod.
This fast-track development is achievable due to Finmeccanica – Selex ES’s previous research and development work which sought to identify, integrate and de-risk key technologies necessary to realise a follow-on of the Skyshadow pod.
Flight trials are scheduled for late 2014, with delivery and initial operating capability on the front-line planned for late 2015.