The Eurofighter Typhoon is set to become the first international platform to receive the Digital GPS Anti-jam Receiver (DIGAR™) from BAE Systems, giving the aircraft more protection against signal jamming, spoofing and radio frequency (RF) interference.
DIGAR has been selected to move into the next phase of the Phase 4 Enhancements (P4E) capability program for the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft, according to a news release. With DIGAR, pilots will be able to execute missions in heavily contested RF environments.
DIGAR leverages advanced antenna electronics, high-performance signal processing and digital beamforming to deliver improved GPS signal reception and optimal jamming immunity. These capabilities increase GPS jamming protection and are critical for combat aircraft as they maneuver through contested battlespace. DIGAR is also compatible with advanced M-Code, providing additional security for warfighters.
The Typhoon will also receive BAE Systems’ GEMVII-6 airborne digital GPS receiver. When combined with the DIGAR antenna electronics unit, the receiver enables the platform to conduct high-capability digital beamforming anti-jamming.
“Modern fighters require accurate positioning and navigation data for mission success in GPS contested environments,” said Luke Bishop, director of Navigation and Sensor Systems at BAE Systems, according to the release. “Our DIGAR antenna electronics and GEM VII GPS receivers are trusted to protect these vital platforms in GPS challenged environments to support mission success.”
The fighter is the “backbone of combat air defense” for the UK and many of its European and international allies. It is in service with nine nations and provides 24/7, 365 days a year air security. The Typhoon is used in frontline operations, including ongoing NATO air policing across Eastern Europe.
Last year, BAE Systems received a $13 million contract to protect U.S. F-15E aircraft from GPS signal jamming and spoofing with DIGAR, making it the second U.S. aircraft to receive the upgrade. The F-16 Fighting Falcon was the first. DIGAR also has been installed on other special-purpose aircraft in the U.S. such as air interdiction and force protection platforms, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
