Originally Posted by
Rhino power
No, not so much, initial Typhoon deliveries to the RAF (to 17(R) Sqn) began in 2003 under the Case White contract, this provided initial support and training while 29(R) got up to speed and before they moved to Coningsby in July 2005...
Whilst Typhoon's development has also been somewhat glacial, much of that is down to the partner nation's procrastination, Germany in particular in the early years and also a lack of financial commitment, the F-35 on the other hand has never suffered any financial constraints which have impacted it's development, in fact it's more or less had money thrown at it constantly!
-RP
Where have I heard that before? This paragon compared to the F-35?
Originally Posted by National Audit Office 2 Mar 2011
Management of the Typhoon Project
The cost of each Typhoon aircraft has risen by 75 per cent. While Typhoon performs some defence tasks now, it won’t take on all roles until 2018...
Among the findings in today’s report are that key investment decisions were taken on an over-optimistic basis and costs have risen at a rate the MOD did not predict. The objectives of four partner nations on the project are not fully aligned and decision-making is slow. There have also been problems with spares and other support which mean the RAF is not flying Typhoon as much as planned.
Okay, Typhoon first flew with the RAF for development and testing in 2003 although not operational until 2007.