01/31/2011. Remarks by Johan Visschedijk: "The ECR (Electronic combat and reconnaissance) version of the Tornado was selected by the German AF to supplement existing in-service tactical reconnaissance aircraft such as Wild Weasel F-4G Phantom.

The contract for the seventh production batch, signed on June 10, 1986, included 35 Tornado ECRs. Two development aircraft (s/n 98+03 and 98+78) were converted from Tornado IDS (Interdictor/Strike) aircraft, and was first flown on August 18 1988. The first production aircraft (s/n 46+23) made its first flight on October 26, 1989, and deliveries to 2/JBG 38 began May 21, 1990, and later to 3/JBG 32.

Intended for standoff reconnaissance and border control, reconnaissance via image-forming and electronic means, electronic support, and employment of anti-radar guided missiles, this variant is powered by the Mk.105 version of the RB199 engine, providing approximately10% more thrust. The Tornado ECR had both internal cannon deleted, the external load stations can be used for ECR or fighter-bomber missions, or a combination of both.

The pictured aircraft, wearing a 'digital' color scheme especially designed for the 2010 NATO Tiger Meet, is assigned to 321 Squadron 'Lechfeld Tigers', part of JaboG 32 (Jagdbombergeschwader, Fighter-Bomber Wing), based at Lechfeld, Bayern, Germany."