Always on duty for security and freedom – 30 years after its maiden flight, the Eurofighter remains a critical asset in Europe’s defense landscape. Here are 30 facts illustrating why the Eurofighter Typhoon is poised to stay state-of-the-art for the next three decades:
Experience of a lifetime
On March 27, 1994, the Eurofighter Typhoon DA1 took off for its maiden flight from Manching, Bavaria. Test pilot Peter Weger recounted, “I knew that I was piloting an incredible aircraft and that we had something special. It was one of those days that you will remember for the rest of your life.”
A true European
The Eurofighter is a twin-engine, multi-role combat aircraft capable of all-weather operations, specializing in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. It was jointly developed by Germany, Great Britain, Italy, and Spain.
One for all and all for one
The Eurofighter consortium consists of Airbus (Germany and Spain), BAE Systems (UK), and Leonardo (Italy), which jointly manage the Eurofighter Typhoon’s production in consultation with the partner nations.
Guarantee of security and freedom
The Eurofighter plays a vital role in securing NATO’s eastern flank, helping to ensure the safety and freedom of European nations. More information can be found here.
Always on duty
In June 2023, the Eurofighter contributed significantly to Air Defender, the largest deployment of NATO air forces ever, showcasing allied military cooperation. Read more here.
With 150,000 hp to Mach 2.35
The two engines of the Eurofighter Typhoon generate approximately 150,000 horse-power, allowing it to reach speeds of Mach 2.35, just under 2,900 kilometers per hour.
Soaring to 11,000 metres in 2 minutes
The Eurofighter can ascend to nearly 11,000 meters in only 2 minutes, making it exceptional for Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) operations to defend national airspace.
680 orders worldwide
So far, a total of 680 Eurofighter Typhoons have been ordered by nine countries, with 603 already delivered. The first Eurofighter was handed over to the German Air Force in 2003.
Backbone of European air forces
Boasting over 850,000 flight hours, the Eurofighter Typhoon serves as a backbone for the air forces of Germany, Britain, Italy, and Spain.
International player
Five countries have ordered Eurofighter Typhoons for their fleets: Austria (15 aircraft), Saudi Arabia (72), Oman (12), Kuwait (28), and Qatar (24).
Four final assembly lines
Airbus assembles the Eurofighter in Manching, Bavaria, and in Getafe, Madrid, while BAE Systems and Leonardo are responsible for assembly in the UK and Italy respectively.
The best from Europe
Core components for the Eurofighter are sourced from its four partner companies, including the centre fuselage from Airbus Germany, the right wing from Airbus Spain, and various sections from BAE Systems and Leonardo.
14 steps to the finished Eurofighter
The final assembly of the Eurofighter involves 14 distinct steps, from assembling major components to conducting ground and flight tests before delivery.
Always on for customers
Post-delivery, Airbus remains committed to its customers. In Germany and Spain, the company ensures that the Eurofighters are combat-ready during critical times.
Quadriga Eurofighters for the German Air Force
Airbus is currently producing 38 Tranche 4 Eurofighters known as Quadriga for the German Air Force, with deliveries of 30 single-seaters and 8 twin-seaters expected between 2025 and 2030 under a contract signed in 2020.
Halcon Eurofighters for Spain
From 2026 to 2030, Airbus will deliver 20 new Tranche 4 Eurofighters, referred to as Halcon I, to the Spanish Air Force, with approval for an additional 25 Eurofighters pending.
Fit for electronic combat
By 2030, the Eurofighter will be equipped for electronic combat, enhancing its operational capabilities and contributing to European sovereignty. Further details are available here.
Bridge to the future – 2 important decisions
The production of the Eurofighter in Germany is anticipated to conclude in 2030. Without a follow-up order, a ten-year production gap may ensue before the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) becomes operational in 2040.
Eurofighter LTE upgrade: new cockpit, more computing power
The Long-Term Evolution program aims to modernize the Eurofighter’s cockpit and enhance its computational capabilities, keeping it at the forefront of technology, with contract signatures expected in 2024.
Need for 100 new Tranche 5 Eurofighters
An additional order for 100 new Tranche 5 Eurofighters is essential to sustain development and production capabilities in Germany. This order would see 50 aircraft produced in Germany, with others potentially sourced from export orders.
Guarantee of jobs in Europe
The Eurofighter program is a significant economic driver, securing 100,000 jobs across Europe and involving 400 companies in its supply chain.
Over 120 German suppliers
A recent study indicated that more than 120 suppliers in Germany are engaged in the Eurofighter program, employing approximately 25,000 personnel.
Significant contribution to German GDP
By 2060, the Eurofighter Tranche 4 is forecasted to contribute around €6.5 billion to German GDP.
Significant tax revenues in Germany
This program is expected to generate tax revenue of approximately €3.6 billion by 2060.
26,000 new jobs in Spain
The Eurofighter program is projected to secure 26,000 jobs in Spain by 2060, according to studies associated with the Halcon and Quadriga contracts.
Service life beyond 2050
Through ongoing advancements, the Eurofighter is set to remain a leading-edge platform, continuing as the backbone of European air defense through the 2050s.
Technology bridge towards FCAS
Eurofighter will play an integral role within the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), interfacing with both manned and unmanned platforms to mature core technologies.
Joint missions with drones
Drones of varying sizes will complement the Eurofighter in future operations, improving pilot safety and expanding operational capabilities.
For further details on the Eurofighter, visit the official Airbus page.
Source: Airbus Defence and Space (2024-03-26)
