The UK Royal Air Force's Panavia Tornado GR4 strike aircraft are to receive a secure communications upgrade under a potentially bilateral programme with the German air force. Expected to cost up to £100 million ($190 million), the upgrade will replace the GR4's VHF/UHF radios with an integrated UHF secure voice and encrypted data communications suite compatible with global air traffic management requirements. Growth options also include a requirement to upgrade the system to support future VHF datalink standards, says the UK Ministry of Defence.
Announced on 2 March, the UK's initial requirement will cover the provision of 62 shipsets, each comprising two radios and a new communications control system, plus training equipment and spares.
As prime contractor for the UK's ongoing GR4 upgrade programme, BAE Systems will select a supplier to develop, manufacture and support the new communications equipment until 2025 – significantly later than the RAF's acknowledged out-of-service date for the aircraft. BAE will integrate the selected equipment on almost half of the RAF's current 140-strong fleet of GR4s, enhancing their ability to participate in coalition operations.
"Germany has a potential requirement for this equipment and the possibility of a joint procurement is under initial consideration", says the UK MoD, which "reserves the right to invite the German MoD to participate in the downselect process". Companies have until 30 March to express interest in the project, with shortlisted bidders to supply production hardware for evaluation by mid-year.
Source: Flight International
