Germany has ordered 20 additional Eurofighter aircraft under a new contract with Airbus, with production to take place at the company’s final assembly line in Manching, Germany. Deliveries are scheduled between 2031 and 2034, Airbus announced Wednesday.
The new aircraft will feature the E-Scan electronic radar and electronic warfare enhancements. Saab’s Arexis sensor suite will be integrated into both new and existing Eurofighters to strengthen detection, targeting and survivability capabilities.
Eurofighter Advanced Systems
Germany has also been upgrading its fleet with other advanced systems. In August, parliament approved the purchase of Rafael Litening 5 targeting pods for the Eurofighter fleet in a deal valued at about $418 million.
The Eurofighter program is a joint effort by Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom, supporting over 100,000 jobs across Europe, including 25,000 in Germany and 120 German suppliers. More than 740 aircraft have been ordered across nine countries, making it the largest European fighter jet production program.
Bridge to Future Combat Air System
“The continued evolution of the Eurofighter serves as an essential technological and operational bridge to a Future Combat Air System, ensuring a seamless transition to the next generation of air power,” said Michael Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space.
“With these additional Eurofighters, Germany strengthens its ability to conduct surveillance of its airspace and secure NATO’s skies, supporting Germany in its role as a reliable partner for collective security.”