Eurofighter and NETMA progress next Capability Enhancement Package for Typhoon

5 June 2023 – Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH and NETMA (the NATO Eurofighter & Tornado Management Agency) have agreed the contract to develop the next capability enhancement package for the Eurofighter Typhoon.

The Phase 4 Enhancement (P4E) SD (system definition) package contains a number of new developments, including an automated sensor management capability for all Typhoon radars.

This allows the user to exploit the capabilities of the AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar to complete multiple simultaneous tasks, while reducing the pilot workload required as they manage different sensors.

The package also includes an improved cockpit interface and enhanced Radio Frequency Interoperability (RFIO). This will improve survivability and lethality.

In addition to the automated sensor management capability, P4E will introduce DASS (Defensive Aids Sub-System) upgrades for all customers and includes the German IOC (Initial Operating Capability) additional electronic warfare capability.

Furthermore, the P4E SD will undertake the analysis necessary to extend the service life of the Typhoon, ensuring the aircraft is available for decades to come.

Giancarlo Mezzanatto, Chief Executive Officer, Eurofighter, said: “Typhoon, the backbone of European air defence, will protect our skies into the 2060’s, and therefore it is vital that we continue to enhance the capabilities of the platform and ensure it is operationally effective.

“The P4E package is central to achieving that mission – providing users with an improved cockpit, powerful sensors and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities.”

Simon Ellard CB FREng, General Manager, NETMA, said: “As the operational environment evolves, it is essential that we continue to grow Eurofighter’s capabilities to meet current and future threats.

“The P4E system definition package is a significant milestone in the delivery of an extensive capability upgrade that will ensure Eurofighter remains cutting-edge and a strong deterrence to our adversaries.”

The capability development activity will take place within the four Eurofighter Partner Companies — BAE Systems, Airbus Germany, Airbus Spain and Leonardo — supported by the consortium’s wider supply base.

Photo courtesy Eurofighter