DefenseNews:
First Block 5 Typhoons Arrive at U.K. Squadron’s Base
The United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF) has taken delivery of the first two Typhoon multirole aircraft with an air-to-ground capability. The aircraft were flown to Coningsby air base Aug. 6 for pilot training.
The RAF’s XI Squadron, the lead unit for Typhoons in the ground attack role, is expected to declare operational capability in July 2008. Following that, the British are expected to deploy the aircraft to Afghanistan to replace Harrier GR9 aircraft now supporting NATO operations in the south of the country.
The aircraft delivered to XI Squadron are the first RAF aircraft upgraded to what is known as the Block 5 standard. The aircraft have improved handling and systems, and new defensive and offensive capabilities.
The Typhoon’s initial ground-attack capability allows it to carry the Brimstone anti-tank missile and the Enhanced Paveway II precision-guided bomb. Enhanced Paveway allows the pilot to aim the bomb using either global positioning or laser designation The aircraft continues to carry a range of air-to-air weapons. Part of the upgrade includes improved GPS guidance.
The first trial dropping of the Enhanced Paveway using a laser designator took place Aug. 7.
A BAE spokesman said a laser designator has not been selected for the Block 5 aircraft, and the company continues to consider its options ahead of contracting for a system to be fitted before Typhoon deploys for operations.
The company declined to name the laser-designator supplier for the Aug. 7 trial.
Further enhancements to the Typhoon’s air-to-ground weapons and systems are being developed as part of the Tranche 2 order from Typhoon partners Britain, Germany, Italy and Spain.