Armedforces News - July 2008
RAF Typhoon Gains Multi-Role Capability
Posted by Paul Fiddian on 01/07/2008 - 18:48:07
The Royal Air Force has announced that its Eurofighter Typhoon combat jet aircraft is now operationally capable of carrying out air-to-ground attack missions, in addition to its role as an air-to-air combat platform.
Afghan, Iraqi Missions
According to the RAF, this new capability means that the aircraft - examples of which have now been in service for approaching five years - will be able to carry out its missions more effectively in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Laser Designator Pod
The RAF's fleet of these ultra-modern jets has been put through an upgrade programme, which has seen the aircraft fitted with a new laser designator pod. This device allows information to be fed to controllers at ground level, who, using it, can direct the pilot precisely onto an intended target, which the Typhoon can then strike with a high degree of accuracy.
In RAF terminology, the upgraded Typhoon represents "a new generation of aircraft."
Multi-Role Capability
Air Chief Marshal Sir Clive Loader, RAF Commander-in-Chief, described the announcement that the Typhoon fleet was now multi-role capable as a "truly significant step in the development of this remarkable aircraft."
He added: "This latest capability upgrade gives the Royal Air Force the most operationally flexible aircraft it has ever had."
A total of 144 Typhoons are ultimately due to be delivered.
Quick Reaction Alert
In 2007, the type was declared operationally capable in the QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) role, meaning it can be scrambled to respond to aircraft infringing UK airspace.
Aside from the RAF, the Typhoon is also flown by the air forces of Italy, Germany and Spain, the three nations involved in its development besides the UK.
Source - Armed Forces International's Aviation Expert
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