Enhanced GPS Capability for Eurofighter Typhoon
Eurofighter Typhoon to be Equipped with Innovative DIGAR Upgrade
The Eurofighter Typhoon, a fighter jet jointly developed by Germany, the UK, Spain, and Italy, is set to become the first international platform to feature the DIGAR (Digital GPS Anti-Jam Receiver) upgrade. The UK-based BAE Systems has been selected to develop the GPS technology for the Eurofighter, and the integration of the DIGAR system into the warplane is a significant milestone.
In addition to the DIGAR upgrade, the Typhoon fighter jet will also be fitted with BAE Systems’ new GEMVII-6 digital GPS receiver. When combined with the DIGAR antenna electronics unit, the platform will possess high-capacity anti-jamming capabilities. According to Luke Bishop, the Navigation and Sensor Systems Director at BAE Systems, this technology is essential for modern fighter aircraft to ensure precision positioning and navigation in GPS combat environments.
The decision to equip the Eurofighter Typhoon with the DIGAR upgrade comes as the UK and its allies retired the RAF Tornado GR4 warplanes from service in March 2019. This move positions the Typhoon fighter jet to take on the precision strike capabilities previously held by the Tornado.
To facilitate the upgrade process, the UK launched the Project Centurion development program, worth 425 million euros, in 2014. This program has seen multiple upgrade phases, with the latest phase, P4EA, involving the integration of the DIGAR system into the Eurofighter Typhoon. This upgrade is expected to enhance the aircraft’s protection against GPS jammers, spoofers, and radio frequency interference, enabling it to operate effectively in jamming environments.
The DIGAR system, developed by BAE Systems, is known for its advanced GPS anti-jam capabilities, supporting up to 16 simultaneously directed beams. It provides superior jamming immunity in harsh environments, simultaneous L1/L2 band protection, and Y Code and M Code jamming prevention.
While the DIGAR system will be integrated into the Eurofighter Typhoon, it is also in use in US inventory on F-16 and F-15 aircraft. The system is versatile and can be utilized in air interception and force protection platforms, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The integration of the DIGAR upgrade onto the Eurofighter Typhoon signifies a significant advancement in the aircraft’s capabilities, solidifying its position as a cutting-edge fighter jet in the international arena.
