The Royal Air Force’s fleet of Eurofighter Typhoons is now operationally capable of responding to any aircraft intruding into UK airspace. Typhoon F2s assumed their initial operational duties at the end of June, when they took up responsibility for the Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) strand of British air defence procedure. Tasked with governing the southern half of the country, the Typhoon will, over coming months, gradually replace the Panavia Tornado F3 in this role.

The initial operational squadron with the RAF is Number 3, which took delivery of its first Typhoon last year.

Lord Grayson, the Defence Minister, has commented on this latest development of the Typhoon’s RAF career, stating: "The Quick Reaction Alert provides a vital capability protecting the UK's airspace.” He continued: “Typhoon is the RAF's newest and most capable aircraft, and is now providing a vital contribution to the security of the UK. As Minister for Defence Equipment and Support I am very pleased that Typhoon gives the RAF the next generation of capability which will remain a world-leading aircraft as it continues to be developed and exploited."

Lord Grayson’s comments were echoed by Sir Glenn Torpy, the Chief of the Air Staff. Sir Torpy added: "The RAF has an established and well practised air defence capability and I am delighted that Typhoon is now taking on these operational duties. The Typhoon is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world and gives, for the first time in many years, the RAF a world-beating multi-role capability that is an essential part of the UK's front-line."

The Eurofighter Typhoon is the latest combat to enter service with the RAF, with deliveries beginning 4 years ago. The high-tech, 21^st century type is the fruit of a four-nation consortium, involving Britain, Spain, Italy and Germany.

The basis of the Quick Reaction Alert notion is that aircraft involved are maintained, on the ground, in a consistent state of readiness; thereby enabling them to launch skywards in the shortest possible time, should a potential aerial threat emerge.

Source – Armed Forces International Newsdesk

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