£548m comms upgrade for fighter jets

Improved communication and data links for aircraft supporting troops in Afghanistan, says MoD

Upgrade will reduce the risk of collateral damage

Harrier and Tornado aircraft used to support troops in Afghanistan are to receive improved secure communications and tactical data links in an upgrade costing £548m.

Upgrades of the strike and ground support jets will enhance their ability to support future operations by "improving survivability, increasing situational awareness and lowering the risk of fratricide and collateral damage", says the Ministry of Defence.