programme news and features issue 1 - 2006 eurofighter review

N DA1 Lands for the Last Time

N 2005 Programme Review Enters Final Stages of Flight Test N Eurofighter Typhoon In February, the Eurofighter Flight Test remaining clearances for the Phase 4 FCS undergo rigorous testing in all four Partner Team put Instrumented Production Aircraft will be finalised over the Summer. The final Nations and will involve six aircraft from Moves to the Three (IPA3) through several underwing stage of testing will be the validation of the the Flight Test fleet. heavy load tests, with four Paveway II Phase 5 air-to-ground FCS. The software, On conclusion, the final clearances for Front Line bombs, three external fuel tanks, and a written by a Joint Team headed by EADS the Full Operational Capability will be ex- complement of air-to-air missiles. Military Air Systems in , will pected in 2007, followed by the availability These tests come as Eurofighter Typhoon of the Phase 5 software to Block 5 aircraft. opens the final chapter of the Main Develop- The first Block 5 Eurofighter Typhoon is ment Contract. The testing of the air-to-air already in final assembly in Germany, with carefree handling Flight Control Software deliveries of this standard of aircraft to (FCS) is almost finished, while the begin in early 2007.

Performance is Key Programme Advances Through 2006

Eurofighter Typhoon IPA3 in under wing load tests as aircraft development enters the final stages 4 the programme 2005 Review, a year in 10 1 - 2006 eurofighter review1 - 2006 eurofighter Royal Visitor Typhoon´s Eurofighter 04 22 20 18 16 10 08 06 04 03 contents - news - editorial - Contents & PR department at Eurofighter GmbH at Eurofighter & PR department Review,Eurofighter please contact the Communications If you would like to request additional copies of www.eurofighter.com ReviewEurofighter on the Internet www.esta-druck.de ESTA GmbH Druck Printed by www.iad-design.de Andreas Westphal images.art.design. Design & Production Lee, Planefocus Geoffrey Companies, Partner GmbH, Eurofighter Eurofighter Photography Phillip Lee Editor VP Communications/PR Wolfdietrich Hoeveler Editorial representative Tel: +49 (0) 811-80 1587 17,Am Söldnermoos 85399 Hallbergmoos GmbH, Communications/PR Eurofighter ReviewEurofighter is published by Eurofighter TyphoonEurofighter moves to the front line The power Typhoon behind Eurofighter INDRA on Campaign progress Report The highs and during a key year for Typhoon Eurofighter DA1 lands for the last time TyphoonEurofighter Programme advances through 2006 Latest developments Welcome note from Aloysius Rauen, Chief Executive Officer Armed and Dangerous EJ200 – Programme Update Supplier Update Export 2005 Programme Review Final Flight of the Number One is KeyPerformance News editorial metric tons. is almost 24this configuration IRIS-T missiles. Take-off weight for air-to-air of four AMRAAM and two fit three external fuel tanks, and an four PavewayManching carrying II, Three (IPA3) from Aircraft took off Typhoon Instrumented Production trials, Eurofighter flight In February Winter Olympics TyphoonEurofighter protects the 2006 Air Dominance Guardians for 2006 of 4° Stormo - Olympic TyphoonsEurofighter aircraft in a real operational scenario. aircraft Typhoon worldthe to Eurofighter operate the Air Force first became the tica Militare in base of Grosseto, Aeronau- 4° Stormo of the integrated air defence system main from the Winter Olympic duration of the the Games. air defence coverage above throughout Turin was tasked providingaircraft airspace with new Typhoon generationEurofighter combat Air Force on 16 December 2005, the Italian the role with in its Air Surveillance Following commencement of operations the Already in operation as part of the Italian of the Already in operation as part seat of Pope Benedictus XVI. for Pope coming into John Paul II and the NATO-Russia ceremony burial summit, the Genoa G8 summit, Pratica di Mare as the has already been tested events during such role, has an integral Typhoon Eurofighter helicopters. Force F-16 as well as MB-339CD and HH-3F Air an Italian over together with Turin The air defence structure, in whichThe air defence structure, was Typhoon deployedThe Eurofighter - editorial -

editorial GmbH CEO Eurofighter Aloysius Rauen Aloysius Rauen Yours sincerely of the readership. for new topics that would attract the interest everybody to make comments and suggestions Inputs are welcome and we would invite your feedback and opinions. I would also encourage you to provide us with reading the Eurofighter Review magazine, communication. While I invite you to enjoy for programme-wide two-wayopportunity The launch of the new magazine heralds a new Nation project teams. Contract. Testing is underway across the four- Capabilities outlined in the Main Development development activities, for the Final Operational team has entered the straight, final in terms of With the line in sight, the finishing Flight Test weapon system. future capabilities to be integrated into the Additionally, discussions are underway for the over the Turin Winter Olympic Games. front line, assigned to protecting the airspace by placing Eurofighteraircraft Typhoon on the Force emphasised customer in the confidence the of the course year. Indeed, the Italian Air be equipped with Eurofighter Typhoon during Air Forcesmore units within are to our Partner deliveries to the Customer are progressing and and Stakeholders.ing from our Partners The with amount of good news a significant emanat- Our programme is advancing successfully very formidable aircraft. community with a platform dedicated to this nication across the Eurofighter Typhoon we took the decision of increasing our commu- much happening in and around the programme, quarterly publication from Eurofighter. With so Welcome to Eurofighter Review – the new Dear Friends of Eurofighter Typhoon, 1 - 2006 eurofighter review1 - 2006 eurofighter 3 4 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - news - - news - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 5

Left: Taurus is to be integrated with Eurofighter Typhoon Below: IPA4 during EMC testing in Spain The Prince of Wales’ Royal Typhoon Visit Prince Charles tours Warton

To get a seat in a Eurofighter ing the division of workshare and the ship- Typhoon cockpit you must be either a quali- ping of the major components from the fied pilot or the most important of VIPs. The three other Eurofighter Partner Companies latter got their chance early in February to the final assembly facility at Warton. when His Royal Highness Prince Charles, He also viewed simulated missions on the The Prince of Wales, made an official visit Cockpit demonstrator during his four-hour to BAE Systems’ Warton facility, UK. visit, and met senior management at BAE Taking his seat in the cockpit, Prince Systems. Development Charles commented on its comfort, before The vast majority of the 190 staff and TAURUS for being briefed on the functionality by Flt Lt technicians who work on the aircraft joined and Testing James Jody McMeeking, an RAF fighter pilot His Royal Highness for a cup of tea during Eurofighter Typhoon Crosswinds, fatigue and electromag- instructor. his tour. Production Supervisor Ian Walker, Roll-out of the advanced stand-off weapon netic forces "I told the Prince how fantastic the said he remembered the last time the Prince Eurofighter is. It's an awesome aircraft to of Wales visited the plant in the 1970s. Germany and Spain will be the first nations make us the envy of all the world’s Air Test and certification is an ongoing task. fly," he said. Mr Walker commented: "They were to integrate the Taurus KEPD 350 Standoff Forces. Our Spanish friends have already On 13 January, test pilot Mark Bowman suc- The Prince was given details on the making the Tornado line then. They were weapon with the Eurofighter Typhoon. signed the procurement contract for Taurus. cessfully landed Instrumented Production production and assembly processes, includ- nowhere near as advanced as these". Spain, having signed a procurement contract Our common objective is the planned inte- Aircraft Five (IPA5) with an underwing fuel in Summer 2005 for 43 Taurus guided gration of Taurus with Eurofighter.” tank configuration in a 20 knots crosswind. missiles, joined their German counterparts The German Air Force are set to receive This achievement for the Flight Test team at the roll-out of the first Taurus for the 600 Taurus missiles between 2005 and will ensure that the cleared in-Service Young Woman German Air Force at Büchel, in December. 2009, in a procurement deal worth in the levels for this configuration will be doubled Speaking at the ceremony, German Na- region of 600 million Euro. The Spanish while remaining well inside the aircraft’s Engineer of the Year tional Armament Director, Dr. Jörg Kaempf, contract for the procurement of 43 opera- design limit. stated “The substantial improvements to our tional missiles includes mission planning On Spanish soil, overseen by EADS Top: The Prince of Wales gets a feel for the Typhoon cockpit BAE Systems ` prize winner weapon systems of Tornado, and later and support to aircraft integration. CASA, Eurofighter Typhoon IPA4 underwent Bottom: Taking a tour through the Warton facility Eurofighter, that Taurus represents, will on-ground testing in a series of electromag- Sara Pullen, aircrews’ neck and back following ejection netic compatibility (EMC) and Pit-Drop Crew Systems Engi- from the aircraft. trials. Loaded with four GBU-16 weapons, neer, BAE Systems, “At the end you have a product that you the aircraft was tested for the successful has received the can put your name to – for me it was the jettison of the bombs, while maintaining 2005 Young Woman first new Eurofighter helmet on its first Using Tokunaga’s photography and the complete functionality of all of the aircraft’s Engineer of the Year maiden flight.” A Piece of ART question ‘what does art say to 50 years of critical systems, under electromagnetic award. The presti- While in flight, the helmet visor presents Anniversary Exhibition of Austrian Air Forces?’ as a reference point, seven conditions. Further tests are planned incor- gious title, sponsored the pilot with key mission data including Air Forces artists worked to provide an answer and porating a variety of weapon configurations. by The Institution of fuel levels and weapon status, but on ejec- create an experience of design, photogra- The testing was carried out in advance Incorporated Engi- tion it must protect the head from G-forces To celebrate 50 years of the Austrian Air phy, video, sound, sculpture and installation, of future in-flight bomb jettison trials, with neers and The Caro- up to nine-times that of gravity. Force, Eurofighter Typhoon took centre referring to such aspects as speed, power, the recorded data to be added to previously line Haslett Memori- “When you eject you have to make sure stage in an art exhibition based on the command structures and the desire to fly. conducted EMC tests, to achieve further al Trust and support- the wind blast does not take your head off!” genius of Japanese aviation photographer, The exhibition was held in Hangar VII weapons release clearances. Winners: Sara and ed by BT and Ford Motor Company, was she said. Katsuhiko Tokunaga. (Red Bull Hangar) at Salzburg airfield, and A further significant achievement is the the HEA Helmet presented to Sara by Sir Digby Jones, To make the helmet more aerodynamic, ran from 13 – 30 January. 1,000 test hours attained on the Structural Director-General of the CBI, at a ceremony the team designed something that “looks Test Facility (STF), based at Brough, UK. in London. like a normal helmet that a wasp has The Single-Seat Front / Centre Fuselage Working with the Head Equipment stung”. Fatigue Test, designated as SIFT, is the Assembly (HEA) Team, Sara Pullen, 25, and Sara joined BAE Systems as an appren- structural fatigue qualification of the her colleagues are responsible for the con- tice, and in 2001 moved into the Ground non-common components of the single-seat cept, design, development and qualification Support Equipment Team as a flight sys- Eurofighter Typhoon airframe. Having of the various components of the helmet for tems engineer. In 2004, she graduated with achieved the milestone 1,000 test hours Eurofighter Typhoon. Sara, liaising with a BEng (Hons) Degree in Mechanical and ahead of schedule, the team cited the representatives from the four Nations, has Production Engineering, and is currently successful implementation of periodically overseen a number of trials aimed at assess- applying to study for an MSc in System running the test unmanned as a key factor ing the effects the HEA helmet has on Safety. in reaching the benchmark ahead of schedule.

Left: The Eurofighter Typhoon Full Scale Replica at the ART Exhibition 6 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - programme status - - programme status - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 7

Performance is Key The Programme Advances Through 2006

The Eurofighter Typhoon programme is in a very exciting and challenging phase. The main development activity will continue until the end of 2007; series production is running smoothly with aircraft deliveries to the customer becoming routine; and the Air Force groundcrews are building up the neces- sary experience for ‘on the ground’ operations including maintenance, logis- tic processes, and training. But the most exciting prospect for the programme is that has taken the next step and put Eurofighter Typhoon into an armed quick reaction alert role to safeguard Italian air space, with their lead to be followed by the remaining Partner Air Forces later this year.

The programme will reach new heights in 2006

Six Nations have now selected the Euro- The recent deliveries of Block 2 aircraft and precision guided weapons on the first weapons like Paveway and Guided Bomb consistently proven in independent assess- fighter Typhoon, with Saudi Arabia in provide the customer with the Initial Opera- Tranche of aircraft. All such clearances are Units (GBU), and while initial flights with ments where the aircraft, and other West- December agreeing with the United King- tional Capability (IOC) providing primarily progressively retroapplied to aircraft already four Paveways took place in 2005, more ern fighters, were benchmarked against dom Government that Eurofighter Typhoon air defence capabilities, encompassing full delivered, so that progressively all Tranche flights are scheduled for 2006. upgraded versions of the Sukhoi Flanker in will replace Tornado ADV and other aircraft carefree handling qualities with external 1 aircraft will be brought up to final Block 5 By the end of 2005, Eurofighter GmbH air-to-air combat. The results are stunning in their Air Force’s inventory. With a con- fuel tanks, gun and missile firing clearances, standard. and NETMA had agreed on the way forward and well recognised by Air Forces and the firmed order book of 638 aircraft, the the capability for air-to-air refuelling, and Production of the first aircraft Block 5 in order to conclude the main development competition. The F-22 and Eurofighter Eurofighter Typhoon programme currently the ability to operate chaff & flares for self- for Austria is well advanced, with the major phase. An indicator that this phase is draw- Typhoon clearly dominate in the win rate has a stronger order book than any other protection as part of the initial DASS Defen- components such as the front and centre ing to a close was the last flight of DA1 in with both scoring well in excess of 80 percent, competing new generation aircraft pro- sive Aids Subsystems package. With their fuselage already in build. Final assembly of December 2005 at EADS Manching. DA1 and leaving the rest of the field trailing in gramme. According to media sources, the Multi-functional Information Distribution AS001 is scheduled for Spring 2006, with was the first Development Aircraft to fly in their wake quite drastically. The Dassault System (MIDS), Eurofighter Typhoons pro- aircraft deliveries due to begin in 2007. 1994. The remaining five Development Rafale managed 50 percent, while other vide network centric capabilities to the Air By early 2006, 75 series production air- Aircraft will soon follow suit as they fulfil weapon systems, such as Gripen and the Forces - a feature high on the list of in-ser- craft had been delivered to the customer, 69 their respective development roles and legacy fighters, fell well below the 50 percent vice requirements. Initial Direct Voice Input of which are operated by the four Partner reach the end of their design life. This fact mark. Eurofighter Typhoon’s superior per- (DVI), and sensor fusion, including MIDS, Air Forces. The remaining five so called goes a long way in demonstrating the matu- formance puts it in a class with the F-22. are the main features of the Block 2 Human Instrumented Production Aircraft (IPA) are rity of the programme, but it must also be Nothing else comes close. Machine Interface of the cockpit. being used for test and evaluation purposes highlighted that the retirement of the DA The results from these assessments The first Block 2B aircraft have been by industry. The combined Air Force and fleet does not indicate that Eurofighter ensure that interest in Eurofighter Typhoon handed over to the Spanish Air Force and industry fleets had surpassed the 10,000 Typhoon has achieved its final performance from other Nations is high. The Eurofighter the Royal Air Force. The Type Acceptance flying hours mark early in 2006, with over standard. Partner Companies are actively pursuing document signature was achieved in Decem- 6,000 hours logged by the in-service air- The proposals for new capabilities to be market opportunities in potential Export current scheduled delivery figures of the ber 2005, on time and on schedule. The craft since the first handover in 2003, and introduced with Tranche 2 aircraft were Nations such as Greece, Turkey and Nor- competition programmes are: 120 Rafale Block 2B standard introduces the Phase 4 the industrial Flight Test aircraft amassing submitted to NETMA in the fourth quarter way, with Eurofighter GmbH playing a key Top: IPA4 on testing over the Spanish coastline aircraft to be reduced to 111, 183 Lockheed Flight Control System software for signifi- well over 4,000 hours. of 2005, and these proposals included the role in identifying the Nations where Bottom: IPA2 operating from Caselle, Italy Martin F-22 fighters and 232 Gripens. cantly more agility. While the Air Forces are now training integration of the advanced Meteor BVRAAM Eurofighter Typhoon’s capability matches Far left: German Air Force Eurofighter with air-to-air Eurofighter Typhoon is still by far the best- The Final Operating Capability (FOC) their pilots, the Flight Test programme (Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile) the national requirement. configuration including IRIS-T selling combat aircraft in the world today standard aircraft is Block 5, on order for the focuses on development and testing of the that flew on Eurofighter Typhoon for the For 2006, the challenges facing the and will maintain that position for the fore- customer for deliveries in 2007. It will have FOC Avionic System and the Phase 4 (air-to- first time in December last year. The enabler Eurofighter Typhoon programme have not seeable future. the full air-to-air and air-to-ground capabili- air) and Phase 5 (air-to-ground) Flight Con- for the introduction of these and other new changed and, although intense political One of the main principles in the ties specified in the Main Development trol Software, with the Phase 4 standard capabilities was the signature of the Tranche 2 debate is still to be expected, the main focus programme is the stepped approach in per- Contract, as required by the air forces, with allowing the aircraft to achieve its maxi- production contract, signed in 2004. remains clear: Deliver world class perfor- formance release, so called Blocks, which the first Block 5 aircraft already in final mum agility. Testing is to be finalised in New capabilities will accumulate over mance to the customer. are aligned to the production Tranches. Each assembly at EADS Military Air Systems Spring 2006, following the conclusion last time as the Air Forces themselves further new developed Block of Eurofighter Typhoon Manching facility. year of testing at full 9g loads. Phase 5 soft- develop the outstanding qualities and Aloysius Rauen, CEO heralds an advance in the capabilities at the Recent proposals also cover an initial ware will enable Eurofighter Typhoon to not potential of the aircraft. The world class per- disposal of the Partner Air Forces. clearance for use of a laser designator pod only carry, but to also operate, air-to-ground formance of Eurofighter Typhoon has been 8 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - DA1 retirement - - DA1 retirement - news 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 9

DA1 takes off with reheat for aerial display

Final flight of the number one DA1Lands for the Last Time

On 21 December 2005, eleven years, eight DA1 also made regular appearances months, and 24 days after making the during the exhibition calendar, and was a historic first flight for the Eurofighter pro- star performer at Europe’s major airshows. gramme, Development Aircraft One came in In 2000, and with “smokewinder” pods to land for the last time at EADS’ Manching attached, DA1 turned in breath-taking daily facility. displays at both ILA Berlin and Farnbor- Piloted by test pilot Chris Worning, DA1 ough International, as well as other exhibi- was greeted by the EADS Groundcrew, and tions in the Netherlands and the Czech the technicians who have endeavoured to Republic. The aircraft’s place in airshow enable the aircraft to play an integral role at legend was sealed when it flew as part of the forefront of the Flight Test programme. the historic four-ship fly past, with DA2, Over the course of its 578 flights and In terms of achievements, DA1’s contri- DA4 and IPA1 (Instrumented Production just short of 500 flying hours, some of bution to Flight Test has been immense. Aircraft) at Farnborough 2002. the milestones achieved by DA1 include: Right from the off, the certification and data As the Eurofighter programme has gathering conducted by DA1 has helped reached a high maturity level and is reach- N First ever flight of a Eurofighter Typhoon shape the performance and capability on ing the end of the main development phase, what is today the most advanced combat the Development Aircraft have almost N In-flight icing trials behind a Do 228 aircraft in the world. Primarily involved fulfilled their tasks. DA1 now goes into a Tanker with initial, and ongoing, airframe and FCS well-earned retirement, with the others development, DA1 later moved into aircraft soon to follow. N First formation take-off and landing handling, envelope expansion and engine development. Phillip Lee N First in-flight refuelling from a Tornado with Buddy-Buddy pod

N First in-flight refuelling with 3 (wet) external tanks

N Completion of supersonic carefree DA1 was a key player in handling manoeuvres Flight Test, amassing almost 500 flight hours N Autopilot testing completed

Final Flight preparations Following its final flight, DA1 lines up with EADS for DA1 at Manching Test Pilot Chris Worning and the Groundcrew at Manching who have serviced the aircraft during its Flight Test career 10 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - 2005 programme review - - 2005 programme review - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 11

Thumbs up from the Chief of the Austrian Air Force

February craft was subjected to temperatures as low as -31° and it provided verification for sys- The Highs and Highs during a Key Year for Eurofighter Typhoon Missiles, first tem operations in extreme cold weather. The increasing maturity and confidence flights, and an in the aircraft was further demonstrated when BT005 / ISPA1 returned from detach- Austrian in the ment in the United States. The aircraft had 2005 cockpit been undergoing operational testing, and this deployment success adds to the February was dominated with a variety achievements from the Singapore deploy- of flying achievements. In Flight Test, BAE F-18, MiG-29 and the Gripen. An outstand- ment in mid-2004. Programme Review Systems-operated DA4 carried out a success- ing aeroplane with outstanding performance ful guided-firing of the AMRAAM missile, that meets our expectations and require- scoring a direct hit against its target, while ments. The man-machine interface is superb April the first single-seat Typhoon bound for the and pilot orientated.” Austria as the first Italian Air Force made its maiden flight out Export customer signed the procurement RAF relocation The signature of the Tranche 2 Supplement 3 contract for signatures, would be built on and that this level of of Alenia’s test facility at Caselle. contract for the delivery of 18 aircraft in production of a further 236 aircraft still fresh in the achievement would be maintained throughout the 2003. and an Export elimi- memory, and with the Type Acceptance of the single-seat duration of the coming 12 months. variant also recently achieved, the Eurofighter programme Here we take a retrospective look at the headline-making nation moved into 2005 confident that the successes of 2004, events of the now confirmed best-selling next generation March The Royal Air Force took the headlines in climaxing in December with the two key contract fighter aircraft! April with the announcement that 17 (R) Surviving the cold Squadron had relocated to RAF Coningsby, from the BAE Systems Warton facility. The January and a US aircraft of 17 (R) Squadron had been brought into service in partnership with Turning defence detachment ends industry under the ‘Case White’ programme, EADS announced in March an initiative that proved to be a resounding into attack the delivery of the 100th Centre Fuselage success, highlighted by the fact that every Even with Tranche 2 confirmed and deliver- section to EADS CASA. The milestone com- target was achieved and in some cases ies of single-seat Eurofighter Typhoons ponent was assigned to SS007 of the Span- exceeded, culminating in the on-schedule underway, the programme began 2005 ish Air Force, and was delivered to the final delivery to RAF Coningsby. having to explain and reiterate the process assembly line at Getafe. Also in this month, the programme of planned capability insertion to the public In the middle of March, the Spanish announced that all four partner Air Forces following fierce criticism from the German Eurofighter Typhoon IPA4 completed the were operating Batch 2 single-seat aircraft, weekly publication “Der Spiegel”. longest and most exceptional test campaign following deliveries to the German Air To further emphasise this chosen track on foreign soil when it touched down at Force and the Royal Air Force, and the of ongoing development and qualification, Getafe following Cold Environment Trials in deployment of IS002 to Grosseto, Italy. the Flight Test team achieved the first flight Vidsel, Sweden. During the trials, the air- with six advanced-medium-range-air-to-air- missiles (AMRAAMs), fully integrated with a successful simulated firing, as well as the completion of Autopilot Official Assessment Flights. DA4 conducts successful AMRAAM release

In support of ongoing Export efforts, the Chief of the Austrian Air Force, Major General Erich Wolf, and a delegation from the Turkish Air Force, both gained first- hand experience of the manoeuvrability of Eurofighter Typhoon. After his flight, General Wolf commented: “This was the most impressive aircraft I've ever flown and I've flown many aircraft including the F-16,

A multi-national lineup of five Eurofighter IPA4 endures the Typhoons preparing for takeoff at Manching cold in Sweden 12 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - programme status - - programme status - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 13

out fighting with achievements across the board. Initial operations out of RAF Con- ingsby had begun positively, and deliveries to the Air Forces were progressing at a steady rate. The testing of updates to the avionics package of the aircraft with FOC standard, in particular to the radar, the DASS and the sensor fusion, started and overall the pilot feedback was positive.

EADS CASA deliver the 100th Right Hand Wing June

EADS CASA ensured that the production A Summer tour programme made headlines when they delivered the 100th series production Right and the Programme Hand Wing, assigned to Eurofighter GS017, to the German final assembly facility at hits 50 Manching. The coming of the Summer months signalled In the Export market, despite proving its the start of a busy exhibitions calendar. capabilities to be above and beyond those of First up was the 46th International Paris the rival aircraft, Eurofighter Typhoon was Airshow at Le Bourget. A programme mile- eliminated from the Singapore Fighter Com- stone was achieved in the aerial display petition. Singaporean officials acknowl- when, for the first time, Captain Matteo Two aircraft of JG73 “Steinhoff” provided the aerial display at Airpower 05, Zeltweg edged the capability supremacy, but added Maurizio, of the Italian Air Force, piloted an that the core programme schedule did not Air Force single-seat operational aircraft in match the time schedules of the Singapore front of the watching crowds. The event al- Air Force. so provided a platform for industry and customer to showcase the partnership ethic The Summer’s second major July running through the programme, and to event was Airpower 2005, at Zeltweg, Captain Matteo May brief other interested nations on the advan- Austria. Eurofighter and EADS supported in Maurizio wows the A second RAF move tages of becoming involved in the collabora- full, with the German Air Force providing Parisian crowds at A positive start tive project. two aircraft from JG 73 “Steinhoff”, Laage. Le Bourget and IPA4 takes the During the show week, the Norwegian This was the first event, since the contract heat and testing begins Government announced that it would in- with Austria was agreed, during which the crease its funding in Eurofighter Industrial public and Air Force personnel could famil- The busy Summer showed no sign of letting on FOC participation, citing the benefits brought by iarise themselves with what will be the up as the programme moved into July. At With the discussions still raging over the such a partnership as being that the access future air defence weapon system of the the beginning of the month, 29 (R) Singapore decision, and the Eurofighter to the technological know-how will enhance Bundesheer. Squadron of the Royal Air Force, joined 17 procurement again subject to debate in the the capabilities of their armed forces in the Also in June, the programme soared The Eurofighter (R) Squadron, at RAF Coningsby as they Austrian Parliament, the programme came long run. through the 50 barrier in terms of aircraft mock-up, in Austrian made the move from BAE Systems’ Warton delivered to the customer. The simultaneous Air Force markings, facility. was a crowd-puller acceptance of aircraft by Germany and at Zeltweg Spain took the number of aircraft owned by the customer to 51 at the end of the first half of the year. Eurojet, the consortium overseeing the production of the EJ200 engine, recorded a significant milestone of their own when they delivered the 250th engine to the nations.

RAF Typhoon Display Pilot Sqn Ldr Matt Elliott at RIAT 05

In the Flight Test arena, EADS CASA com- menced heat trials with Instrumented Pro- Initial 17 Sqn operations out of RAF Coningsby were successful duction Aircraft 4 in Southern Spain, an ambitious programme that would look to complete around 40 flights with the aircraft in extreme high temperatures. 14 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - 2005 programme review - - 2005 programme review - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 15

Air-to-air refuelling tests completion

And, as the month came to a close, the October December German Defence Minister, Dr. Peter Struck, paid a visit to the EADS Manching facility, Italy top 1,000 and The sweet smell of to highlight the cooperation between the German Air Force and Industry. Eurofighter makes a success As Advent started the countdown to Christ- Vienna fly-past mas, it was the Air Forces who made the August Following the lead of JG73 at Laage, the headlines on behalf of the programme. The IPA4 undertaking heat trials in Spain second proposed Eurofighter unit in the German Air Force, along with the Italian The exhibition circuit resumed when Testing. Testing. Luftwaffe took the first steps towards and Spanish Air Forces, took delivery of the aerospace manufacturers from around the conversion following the handover of the first series production IRIS-T Air-to-Air mis- world descended on RAF Fairford, UK, for Testing. Towards the end of August, testing was ASTA training building in Neuburg. From sile, with a high-profile ceremony conducted Major General Klaus L. Axelsen the Royal International Air Tattoo 2005. The achievements of the Flight Test team completed on Autopilot flights with the this year, all JG74 pilots will undergo Chief of Royal Danish Air Force at Jagdgeschwader 73, in Rostock-Laage. Not Typhoon captured the headlines as the drove the programme throughout August, twin-seat IPA3. The flight computers took Eurofighter Typhoon training on the simula- to be outdone, the Royal Air Force conducted weekend’s star performer! with significant developments in key areas. control of the aircraft and reacted to the tors installed at Neuburg. In terms of Flight Test, the Royal Air first flight trials with the MBDA Meteor Also in July, Greece, having initialled a First, Development Aircraft 1 carried out differences in loads and handled the air- As part of the celebrations marking the Force conducted the firing of the Advanced missile. 17 Squadron, based at RAF Conings- contract for 60 aircraft before the Olympic the successful first flight of an upgraded craft accordingly. 50th Anniversary of the Austrian Armed Short-Range Air-Air Missile (ASRAAM) as by, carried out the tests with two GHTMs Games, acquired 30 F-16s as an interim software package (phase 4). This success The month closed with successes in the Forces, a four-ship Eurofighter Typhoon well as various AMRAAM flights. (ground handling training missiles) which solution to maintain their fleet against attri- was matched by DA3 a few days later when carefree handling flight testing, in which formation made a fly-past over Heldenplatz, The VIP flight of the month belonged to are representative in terms of mass, tion. EADS, the majority shareholder in the the aircraft completed a campaign of Flutter the Eurofighter Typhoon was subjected to EADS when Test Pilot Chris Worning flew Eurofighter programme and campaign Test flights. The campaign included flights Gross Manoeuvring Levels i.e. the pilot Major General Klaus L. Axelsen, Chief of the leader in Athens, strongly stated that this at the extremities of the flight envelope, jerked the stick to elicit aircraft responses Royal Danish Air Force Air Material Com- procurement is not against the Eurofighter with external loads, and highlights the air- instead of easing the aircraft into flight mand. After the flight, which lasted little programme. craft’s durability in the extremes of flight. manoeuvres, and Eurofighter again proved over an hour, Major General Axelsen its handling capabilities in coming through showed his enthusiasm and claimed 29 Sqn join 17 Sqn at RAF Coningsby these tests with ease. “you should be proud of this very capable aircraft.” The final major event of 2005 took the September Eurofighter team to the United Arab Emirates for the Dubai 2005 Airshow. A Turkish delight Although there was no Eurofighter Typhoon in the flying display, the presence was Antonio Martino METEOR flight trials for Eurofighter Typhoon An extremely busy September in Flight Italian Secretary of Defence strong enough to attract a wealth of dele- Test is highlighted with the completion of gates and VIP visitors. dimension, and aerodynamics, of the opera- several key tasks, including various air-to- Vienna, highlighting the four Nation part- BAE Systems also announced that the tional weapons. This flight demonstrated air refuelling tests, carefree handling ma- nership while giving the Austrian public assembly of the first production standard that Eurofighter Typhoon has the ability to noeuvres, and AIM-9L missile firings. the opportunity to see, what will be their Tranche 2 aircraft had commenced, and carry all air-to-air weapons assigned to it in The exhibition circuit moved up a gear newest air defence system, in action. that a further seven were to begin by the the Air Defence role. with two airshows linked closely with cam- In Flight Test, the team enjoyed further end of the year. The celebrations from the missile paign efforts. The first stop was Tanagra Air successes in missile firings, in addition to achievements had barely died down when Base, Greece, for the Archangel 2005 air- the first flight of upgraded avionics software. the Government announced show, with campaign leader EADS, support- As October drew to a close, the Italian the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon to the King- ed by Eurofighter, putting on a considerable Air Force marked their first 1,000 opera- dom of Saudi Arabia. Under the agreed exhibition presence. tional flying hours with a small ceremony terms, Typhoon will replace Tornado Air The export focus then shifted to Ankara, in Grosseto, and a VIP flight for Defence Defence Variant and other aircraft currently Turkey, where Eurofighter made its first- Minister, Antonio Martino who, on landing, in service with the Saudi Arabian Air Force. ever appearance in Turkey as part of the declared: “Flying this aircraft is like a drug!” The last major technical event of the year IDEF 2005 International Defence Fair. The was NETMA clearing the Full Operational Italian Air Force had sent two aircraft and Capability avionics functionality, including Captain Maurizio again flew a breath taking November the new Helmet, off the rigs into Flight Test. display. This provided opportunity for the The final headline of 2005 was generated Eurofighter Partner Nations to highlight the Danish and by Eurojet, and their announcement of a strength of the industrial and governmental 300 million Euro contract signature with cooperation in the programme, and a visit Middle-Eastern NETMA, for in-service support up to 2009. plus a joint declaration from the Defence prospects General Klaus-Peter Stieglitz Ministries of Germany, Italy, Spain and the Chief of German Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon in 2005 – United Kingdom, emphasised the potential As the end of the year approached, several Nothing Came Close! benefits of Turkey’s participation in the important numerical milestones were project. achieved by the programme. The Italian Air Phillip Lee Force surpassed the 1,000 in-flight hours, while the combined flying hours for the Defence Ministers from Italy, entire in-service fleet surged past the 5,000 Turkey, UK and Germany at hour mark. the IDEF 2005 Defence Fair, Turkey 16 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - export update - - export update - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 17

Export Update

A World Norway Denmark Netherlands UK of opportunity Germany Belgium Austria Switzerland Portugal Analysis of the combat aircraft market, Greece Denmark Spain Turkey added to feedback from existing customers, Greece’s economy had to take on the burden India Japan Very similar to Norway in its procurement Italy Greece confirms the belief that Eurofighter Typhoon of having hosted the 2004 Olympic Games, strategy, coupled with the fact that they is a highly attractive solution for Nations followed a year later by the decision to pro- also hold membership to the JSF programme, Saudi Arabia worldwide who are in the market for a Next cure 30 F-16 fighters from the United States the approach from Eurofighter Export in Generation Fighter aircraft. Eurofighter as an interim solution to overcome a short- this Campaign mirrors the Norwegian strat- Typhoon is the credible European alternative, fall in the Hellenic Air Force inventory. Oman egy. EADS are the lead Partner, cooperating already in service with four major European Eurofighter Partner and Campaign Leader, closely with the Danish Officials, and all the Air Forces, and contracted to deliver to a EADS, made clear for the consortium that significant competition checkpoints are fifth (Austria) from 2007. The announcement this procurement is definitely not against forecasted to be similar to those of Norway. in December last year of the Government to Eurofighter Typhoon as the need for a next The RFI was issued at the end of 2005, with Government understanding between the generation aircraft is still evident, and that a decision expected 2009, and in-service United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia for the Eurofighter Typhoon is well placed in terms requirements for 2016. sale of Typhoon only serves to underline of capability, and also in terms of the indus- the growing presence and authority of the trial and political benefits that the Eurofighter Further Market Opportunities weapon system in the combat aircraft arena. programme delivers. A Request for Proposal Market Opportunities (RFP) is expected from Greece during 2006. Running parallel to official Campaigns, Contracted Customers Eurofighter Export are continually analysing Austria the market for future fighter replacement The Austrian Government decided in favour competitions and opportunities. The Euro- of Eurofighter Typhoon due to the aircraft pean Nations of Switzerland, the Nether- meeting their “second to none” require- lands, Belgium and Portugal, have been ment. Contracted in August 2003, Turkey Norway identified as future prospects, and in the the Austria programme is well The IDEF Defence Exhibition at Ankara in Although a member of the JSF development Far East, delegates from Eurofighter have on schedule with the major 2005 allowed the Eurofighter Partners to programme, with funding levels of 35 million been received by Japanese Officials in components of AS001, the first showcase the benefits of Turkish industrial Euro for their industrial participation in the order to better understand the national aircraft for the Bundesheer, already participation in the programme. Declared Eurofighter programme, the Norwegian aircraft requirement. in advanced stages of build. an official Campaign in 2004, the Alenia Government are recognising the advantages Eurofighter Typhoon, through its Swing- Deliveries are scheduled Aeronautica-led consortium is promoting that a Eurofighter partnership brings. An Role capability, and its Industrial Participa- to begin in 2007. the Eurofighter Typhoon for the planned RFI has been issued by Norway, and the tion packages, is well placed to serve the modernisation of the Turkish Air Force. The Eurofighter Typhoon marketing and sales requirements of the most demanding Air Request for Information (RFI) has already effort is being led by EADS, who are work- Forces, today and well into the 21st Century. been received and responded to, with the ing closely with the Norwegian officials in Eurofighter Export team now awaiting the order to respond to the RFI before the end Request for Proposal from Turkey, expected of March. A replacement decision is fore- 638 aircraft under contract makes Eurofighter Typhoon the best-selling by the end of 2006. casted for 2009, with an in-service date next generation combat aircraft in expected to be around 2016. the world 18 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - supplier - - supplier - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 19

Top Spanish Supplier The DASS is designed to ensure the air- INDRA´s avionics involvement: craft will survive the full range of threats to enable mission success. It is an integral Items supplied by Indra On-board Communications part of the aircraft’s fighting equipment INDRA N MIDS Interface Unit (MIU) that provides comprehensive protection N 2 Full Mission Simulators (FMS) N Communication Audio Management Unit through the Electronic Support Measures N 2 Cockpipt Trainers/Interactive Pilot Stations One company stands out when looking at Spanish suppliers to the (CAMU) (ESM) together with the Missile Approach N Enhanced (CT/IPS-E) Eurofighter Typhoon programme. That company is INDRA. N VHF / UHF Transceiver (RADIO) Warner (MAW) which work in harmony N 8 Instruction Equipments (IS) with other on-board sensing systems to give N 8 Instruction Assets (IOS) Utilities System timely warning and identification of threats. N 13 Crash Survivable Memory Units (CSMU) N Front Computer (FC) The Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) N 1 Database Generator (DBGS) Now the reference Spanish company in The company's business is divided into N Secondary Power Supply (SPS) System automatically activates the most Information Technologies, Indra’s history three main areas: Information Technologies suitable on-board or off-board countermea- dates back as far as 1921, when the first of (IT), Simulation and Automatic Test Systems Data Register and Presentation sures (inc. towed decoys) to the threat. the companies that would eventually give (SIM/ATS) and Defence Electronics Equip- N Maintenance Data Panel (MDP) The system ensures maximum effective- antenna platform (Scanner) and the produc- Indra, specifically for the ASTA programme, rise to the configuration of what is now ment (DEE). Specifically, Indra is the Spanish ness in all scenarios by allowing total pro- tion and integration of the TAU SRI (Trans- include the Instruction Systems (IOS-IS), Indra, were constituted. More recently, the market leader in the supply and integration Weapons Control System grammability of mission data. mitter Auxiliary Unit). Database Generation System (DBGS) and period from 1986 to 1992 saw a process of of sophisticated defence electronics equip- N Wing Pylon Station Unit (WPSU) the Crash Survivable Memory Unit (CSMU). business restructuring and concentration, ments for the Armed Forces in Spain and the N Fuselage Station Unit (FSU) GPATE belongs to the latest generation Wing Tip ESM/ECM Pods which culminated in December 1992 with most prominent Spanish supplier of Avionics N Integrated Tip Station Unit (ITSU) of general-purpose test programme sets. the merger between CESEL, S.A. and INISEL Systems for the Eurofighter Typhoon. N New Enhanced Safety Critical Armament This portable test system derives from SAM Front Missile Warners Groups. Indra has been participating in the Control (NESCAC) standard and is oriented to the maintenance By 1993, Indra encompassed the busi- Eurofighter Project since the initial definition of the avionic equipments of the Eurofighter nesses of an important group of companies studies for the different equipments, Flight Control System Typhoon. This system is modular, portable from both the public and the private sector, through the subsequent development and N Laser Inertial Navigation System (LINS) and reconfigurable with a great growth and it was at this time that the definition of industrialisation phases, while achieving a N Flight Control Computer (FCC) capacity for future weapon systems. Deploy- the current business project began. More reliable delivery performance during the N Global Positioning System (GPS) ment is ensured by the portable and light restructuring followed during the mid-1990s, current ongoing production programme. ruggerised boxes interconnected without with a focus on consolidation and growth as The company is currently implicated in Engines Control any need of cabling. Rear Missile Warner the millennium drew to a close. Since 2000, more than fifteen different Avionic Systems N Digital Engine Control and Monitoring Indra has experienced strong, above sector and, at the same time, in the relevant ground Unit (DECMU) FUTURE CAPABILITIES average growth, thanks largely to a differen- systems that guarantee the optimal operation Laser Warners The provision of the company's own solu- tial business model and a greater presence of the aircraft. Indra is, through the various Sensors tions, which bring significant competitive on international markets, with the creation Systems, involved with all functional aspects N Defensive Aids Sub-System (DASS) advantages for each customer, requires a of subsidiaries in the United States, China, of the aircraft. N RADAR (Captor) Towed Decoy major investment on innovation in all busi- Portugal and Brazil, among others. Indra In particular, Indra is one of the members ness areas. For that reason, Indra earmarks has completed projects in more than 40 of the EuroDASS and EuroRadar Consortia Future Enhancements INDRA is a member of the consortium responsible for the DASS nearly 8% of revenues for R&D&I activities. countries spread over five continents, with that are responsible for the DASS (Defensive N Laser Designating Pod (LDP) these international activities generating Aids Sub-System) and the Captor Radar. Indra participates in all the key stages of The CAPTOR RADAR is a third generation As result of this policy, Indra is ready to over one third of the company's revenues. the DASS programme. In development, pre- coherent multimode radar for high perfor- face up the future technological challenges liminary qualification has been completed mance combat aircraft, and is the primary of the Eurofighter Programme, through the COMPANY INDUSTRIES allowing for the delivery of the first systems sensor of the Eurofighter Typhoon. The growth of the different roles of the aircraft Today, Indra is the leading Spanish informa- to the customer. radar detects, identifies, prioritises and en- or through the enhancement of the different tion technologies company recording Significant investment has been made in gages targets beyond the effective range of systems in order to maximise the equipment revenues of more than 1 billion Euro, and the development of production facilities, and the enemy weapon systems whilst remaining performances. The future integration of a holding an order book of over 1.3 billion Euro. the manufacturing of 121 ESM-ECM and resistant to severe electronic jamming. targeting laser designating pod or the The company’s principal asset is intellectual MAW systems for the DASS for the four Indra is leading two fundamental areas possible application of the digital reception capital, with a workforce comprising more Partner Nations has begun. Indra partici- related to on-ground systems for the capabilities for the DASS system are good than 6,600 professionals with over 80% of pates in the supply of equipments which Eurofighter Typhoon. The Aircrew Synthetic examples. Indra's total personnel made up of gradu- amounts to approximately 16.5% of the total. Training Aids (ASTA) and the General Pur- ates and highly specialised technicians with To cater for ever-changing threat profiles, pose Automatic Test Equipment (GPATE). Silvia Valdesueiro Perez thorough knowledge of client’s businesses the DASS system is designed to allow easy ASTA is an integrated system comprising and of the latest technologies. The corporate modification for future growth thus ensuring different training elements ensuring a com- headquarters is located in Madrid. protection for Eurofighter Typhoon through prehensive simulation and training capabil- the 21st Century. Indra is at the forefront of ity to the four Eurofighter Nations. future DASS capabilities. Eurofighter Simulation Systems (ESS), led Indra play a key role in both development by Indra, are responsible for the delivery of and production of the RADAR, and responsi- all the ASTA equipment to the Eurofighter 1:1 scale model of DASS pods, showing internally-housed towed decoy ble for desgn and development of the programme in Spain. The packs developed by 20 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - engine - - engine - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 21

EJ200 – Programme Update Pilots love the EJ200 The Power “EJ200 engines are far more powerful than any previous power plant of their size, and provide the Eurofighter Typhoon with a very behind Eurofighter Typhoon high thrust-to-weight ratio, which in turn translates into an unmatched agility and performance throughout the flight envelope, including for example a breathtakingly short The EJ200 sets the standard with its excep- During 2005, the Eurojet partnership The In-Service contract for the first oper- For Tranche 2, a total number of 519 EJ200s take-off run, or the ability to sustain super- tional performance. Europe’s latest genera- continued to provide support to the ational phase was successfully completed in are under contract, ensuring production sonic flight in dry power.” tion, advanced military turbofan engine has Eurofighter Flight Test programme in chal- December 2005, and a new In-service con- until 2012, to be followed by another 519 been designed to fulfill the most demanding lenging test areas. Engine clearance was tract worth about 300 million Euro was engines for Tranche 3, bringing up the total Tcol. José Mª Juanas García, requirements set for next generation fighter given for the full gun-firing envelope while signed by NETMA and EUROJET on 20 De- order book to more 1400. Jefe Grupo 11, Moron, Spain and . Since entry into service Spanish Partner, IPT, worked alongside cember 2005, only a few days before Christ- A new engine technology standard will of the Eurofighter Typhoon in 2003, the EADS CASA during the demanding cold mas. This contract will assure full scale In- be introduced to the Tranche 2 EJ200. They EJ200 engine has been extremely successful weather trials in Vidsel, Northern Sweden. service support for the engine including all will be equipped with a completely integrat- “I have flown the aircraft throughout the in demonstrating outstanding levels of han- In-Service Support procedures have been IT systems (Electronic DataProcessing for ed single Digital Engine Control and Moni- whole flight envelope from minimum speed dling and reliability while exceeding the fully implemented throughout the year, service support) across Europe. The dura- toring Unit (DECMU) instead of the two up to Mach 2 and from 0 to 55,000 feet. This expectations of both pilots and ground building on the experience of the first three tion of the contract runs up to 2009. units currently used. This new unit is smaller is the most exceptional engine I have ever crews, setting the trend for the future of the years of In-Service Operation. The customer In February 2006, Eurojet delivered the in size and offers more flexibility, and will flown, with a lot of thrust. programme and for potential export. and industry organisation are working in 300th engine to the customer. The produc- prove to be more cost-effective than the two The engine matches with the aircraft carefree Throughout 2005, Eurojet Turbo GmbH, integrated teams in order to ensure effec- tion schedule of the 363 engines under predecessor systems. handling characteristics.” the leading European military aerospace tive support of the fleet. contract in Tranche 1 is progressing in line engine consortium and its shareholders with the overall Eurofighter programme, Katarina Elbogen Maurizio Cheli, Chief Test Pilot, Avio (Italy), ITP (Spain), MTU Aero Engines and is due for completion during 2006. Alenia Aeronautica, Torino, Italy (Germany) and Rolls-Royce (UK), have proven the concept in operational flying and had registered almost 15,000 Engine “The EJ200 has breathtaking performance Flying Hours (EFH) with Series Production and is extremely easy to handle over the and Instrumented Production Aircraft by entire flight envelope. Particularly impressive the end of 2005. is the engine performance and handling at high altitude and high speed where modern beyond-visual-range combat takes place.”

Chris Worning, Eurofighter Project Pilot, EADS Military Air Systems, Manching, Germany

“With over three years testing experience on the Eurofighter Typhoon, I am awe-struck with the massive contribution the EJ200 engine has given to the world beating perfor- mance of this aircraft. Total carefree handling of the engine throughout the flight envelope generates a confidence that some other combat aircraft can only admire from a distance. In sum, fast or slow, high level or low level, day or night we have our trust in what the EJ200 can deliver now and in the future."

Mark Bowman, Typhoon Project Test Pilot, An RAF 29 Sqn Typhoon with engines BAE Systems, Warton, UK on full reheat during an aerial display at RAF Fairford, UK 22 1 - 2006 eurofighter review - weapons - - weapons - 1 - 2006 eurofighter review 23

IRIS-T was handed over to the German Air Force in December 2005

Eurofighter Typhoon moves to the front line A full development programme, agreed by ASRAAM provides the pilot with the all six nations, is in place with several signif- ability to effectively engage targets from Armed and Dangerous icant milestones already achieved. Following gun range to near Beyond Visual Range, the completion of a preliminary design with or without active RF emissions. The review in 2003, in September of that year a pilot can identify the threat passively and representative Meteor missile was fitted to cue the missile using a Helmet Mounted Eurofighter Typhoon, while in 2004, a sec- Display, Infra-Red Search and Track (IRST) The start of 2006 heralds a new phase METEOR ond round of wind tunnel testing confirmed or radar. The missile's imaging infrared in the life of the Eurofighter Typhoon since, Under development by a European Partner- the missile’s design integrity. Fully instru- seeker allows ASRAAM to fly out to the having attained firing certification for the ship lead by MBDA, and including INMIZE mented Meteor missiles have been flown on target passively. majority of weapons required in its primary and Saab Bofors Dynamics, Meteor was captive aircraft trials, while aircrews from AMRAAM’s Electronic Power Unit is air defence role, the aircraft progresses to ordered by the United Kingdom Ministry of the six partner nations have been familiaris- capable of processing millions of images full operational service. The Italian Air Force Defence and five other European Nations, ing themselves with the missile via a series and flight computations per second while have assigned two single-seat Typhoon air- including Eurofighter partners Germany, of combat simulator trials at MBDA’s facility the inertial sensor, with its 3 axis fibre craft to be held in constant operational Italy and Spain, to meet their future Air-to- in Stevenage, UK. December last year saw optic gyro and solid state accelerometers, readiness to “scramble” when the order is Air requirements. Meteor flown for the first time on Eurofighter give increased reliability and faster missile capability and improved guidance character- AMRAAM given. Based at Grosseto, Northern Italy, the A highly flexible air-to-air weapon system, Typhoon and the other aircraft types on launch. istics, with the L model being the first With the incorporation of the latest digital aircraft are under the control of Surveillance Meteor provides a comprehensive opera- which the weapon system will be integrated, ASRAAM has been designed to be com- Sidewinder with the ability to attack from technology, micro-miniaturized solid-state of Aerial Spazio (SSSA), the organisation tional capability in the most complex com- and 2006 will see the Meteor team carry out patible with all aircraft capable of launching all angles, including head-on. electronics, and up to date active radar responsible for monitoring and defending bat scenarios. The missile is allocated the first air-launched demonstration firing. Sidewinder or AMRAAM, is in service with Since the beginning of the 1960s, Diehl guidance, the most recent versions of the Italian air space. targets from the launch aircraft radar, and Introduction into service on Eurofighter the Royal Air Force, and has been deployed BGT Defence, as European prime contractor Raytheon Advanced Medium-Range Air-to- can engage air targets autonomously by Typhoon will commence following the com- operationally. Eurofighter Typhoon has and system house, has manufactured more Air Missile (AMRAAM) packs unprecedent- Eurofighter Typhoon has demonstrated using its active radar seeker by day or pletion of missile development. achieved firing certification with ASRAAM. than 35,000 Sidewinder for nearly all NATO ed performance with high dependability its ability to carry the full air-to-air weapons night, and in all weather, or in dense elec- countries. Eurofighter Typhoon has achieved into a lightweight package. suite following the first flights with two tronic warfare environments. ASRAAM AIM-9L Sidewinder firing certification with the missile and it is AMRAAM provides operational flexibili- Meteor GHTMs (ground handling training Designed to defeat emerging and future The Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile The AIM-9 Sidewinder is a supersonic, heat- in service with the Partner Air Forces. ty and multi-shot capability, and can be missiles). This success comes after earlier threats, Meteor’s capabilities combine to (ASRAAM) is a next generation air-to-air seeking, air-to-air missile, with a high-ex- launched day or night, in all weather. Its accomplishments in AMRAAM and ASRAAM give a high kill probability while ensuring missile developed and produced by European IRIS-T autonomous guidance capability gives the firings, AIM-9L launches, and the clearance pilot survivability. The missile’s ramjet Missile giant MBDA, a fully integrated Euro- IRIS-T development was carried out by Ger- pilot critical range preserving launch and to fire the IRIS-T short-range, air-to-air guided propulsion system guarantees a range in pean company owned by Finmeccanica, BAE many, Italy, Greece, Norway, Spain and leave aptitude, allowing for immediate missile. December 2005 saw the delivery to excess of 100 km and a speed of more than Systems, and EADS. Sweden, with overall programme manage- the German Air Force with the Italian and Mach 4. Even when launched from extreme ASRAAM has been deployed by the Royal ment under the responsibility of Diehl BGT Spanish Air Force of the first series produc- stand-off ranges, the missile will have the Air Force and the Royal Australian Air Force. Defence. Missile deliveries to the programme tion IRIS-T missile, in a small ceremony energy to defeat fast, manoeuvring targets, It is capable of engaging any airborne target partners started in 2005. Compared to its conducted at Jagdgeschwader 73, Rostock- with total destruction ensured through its within the pilot's visual range of acquisition, predecessor generation of short-range air-to- Laage. use of both proximity and impact fuses, plus as well as targets beyond this visual range. air missiles, the IRIS-T offers thrust vector To mark the aircraft’s ascension to the a fragmentation warhead that is detonated at control, imaging IR-seeker with much wider front line, Eurofighter Review takes a look the optimum point to maximise lethality. acquisition range, considerably improved at the air-to-air weapons that will protect resistance to countermeasures (IRCM and European airspace for the next 40years. DIRCM), lock-on after launch and a 360 ASRAAM firing certification has been achieved by degree around engagement capability. Eurofighter Typhoon The infrared seeker developed by Diehl BGT Defence provides extremely high Air Superiority configuration including The RAF have conducted AMRAAM firing trials resolution, target discrimination and flare First flight with METEOR proved Eurofighter Typhoon´s ability to carry all AIM-9L Sidewinder designated weapons for Air Defence suppression - even if confronted with the manoeuvre following missile launch, thus plosive warhead and an active infrared guid- latest countermeasures. Diameter, length, providing faster engagement of follow-on ance system. Developed by the US Navy, and mass and centre-of-gravity position have targets or the option to maximise separation later adapted for Air Force use, the missile's deliberately been chosen such that they from the original threat. ASRAAM receives the target's position main components are an infrared homing meet the requirement for compatibility with AMRAAM’s dual use (air and surface coordinates via the carrier aircraft's airborne guidance section, which enables the missile its Sidewinder predecessor. launch) operational capabilities include sensors or the pilot's helmet-mounted sight. to target engine exhausts on enemy aircraft, The missile-launcher interface, too, has quick fly-out, robust immunity to counter- All round target designation and full acquisi- an active optical target detector, a high-explo- been designed so as to be compatible with measures, and better capability attacking tion anywhere in the forward hemisphere, sive warhead, and a rocket motor. both the previous analogue Sidewinder low-altitude targets and, to date, more than plus its resistance to countermeasures, com- The AIM-9L added a more powerful solid- interface and the digital interfaces of modern 25 countries have deployed AMRAAM, en- bined with speed, agility, and high accuracy propellant rocket motor as well as tracking fighter aircraft. Operational service with riching interoperability, ensuring common- in its thermal imaging guidance system manoeuvring ability. Improvements in heat the Eurofighter Typhoon squadrons of the ality, and helping to sustain strong overall ensure the highest kill probability against sensor and control systems have provided German, Italian and Spanish Air Forces has logistic support. any target. the AIM-9L missile with an all-aspect attack now begun. Phillip Lee programme news and features issue 1 - 2006 eurofighter review

N DA1 Lands for the Last Time

N 2005 Programme Review Eurofighter Typhoon Enters Final Stages of Flight Test N Eurofighter Typhoon In February, the Eurofighter Flight Test remaining clearances for the Phase 4 FCS undergo rigorous testing in all four Partner Team put Instrumented Production Aircraft will be finalised over the Summer. The final Nations and will involve six aircraft from Moves to the Three (IPA3) through several underwing stage of testing will be the validation of the the Flight Test fleet. heavy load tests, with four Paveway II Phase 5 air-to-ground FCS. The software, On conclusion, the final clearances for Front Line bombs, three external fuel tanks, and a written by a Joint Team headed by EADS the Full Operational Capability will be ex- complement of air-to-air missiles. Military Air Systems in Germany, will pected in 2007, followed by the availability These tests come as Eurofighter Typhoon of the Phase 5 software to Block 5 aircraft. opens the final chapter of the Main Develop- The first Block 5 Eurofighter Typhoon is ment Contract. The testing of the air-to-air already in final assembly in Germany, with carefree handling Flight Control Software deliveries of this standard of aircraft to (FCS) is almost finished, while the begin in early 2007.

Performance is Key Programme Advances Through 2006

Eurofighter Typhoon IPA3 in under wing load tests as aircraft development enters the final stages