BAE Systems to Integrate Secure Communications and Paveway IV onto Tornado Gr4 Fleet

Released on Monday, January 14, 2008

BAE Systems has been awarded a contract for CUS(P) (Capability Upgrade Strategy (Pilot)) for the Tornado GR4 by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD).

BAE Systems is developing a structured and cost-effective approach to inserting new capability into the aircraft, and the CUS(P) programme, worth over £200m, is the start of this approach.

CUS(P) will involve the design, development, integration and embodiment of an upgraded Secure Communications System and the introduction of a Tactical Data Link Capability onto the Tornado GR4 fleet, along with the integration of the Paveway IV Precision Guided Bomb.

The programme will deliver the upgrade in two stages. The first, referred to as Capability A, will provide a capability release to service for Secure Communications and Paveway IV, followed by a Capability B release to service for a Tactical Data Link Capability. The design and development of these capabilities will take place at BAE Systems' site at Warton. The capability will then be embodied progressively onto the Tornado fleet via the Combined Maintenance and Upgrade facility at RAF Marham.

The CUS(P) programme will provide the MOD with upgrades to the Tornado GR4 fleet which will significantly enhance the platforms capability and sustain its position as platform of choice for offensive air operations.