Deliveries Begin For Upgraded Eurofighters

The Spanish air force has accepted delivery of the first of 15 upgraded Tranche 1 Eurofighters, reports Airbus, the manufacturer.

The single-seat aircraft was handed over after successfully completing the modernization developed by Spain’s Armament and Experimental Logistics Center (CLAEX) as part of its Operational Flight Program 02, said a company release on Monday.

The work involved the integration of Tranche 2 and Tranche 3 equipment, including a computer symbol generator; digital video and voice recorder; laser designator pod; and maintenance data panel, the release said.

The aircraft will be initially used by the CLAEX as a test aircraft to qualify the new capabilities.

A two-seat Eurofighter will be upgraded next.

The modernization is part of a broader plan to keep the Spanish air force's combat jets current, reports IHS Jane's Defence Weekly. Road Map 2035 calls for the Tranche 1 jets to complete upgrading in the early 2030s and exit service around 2040.

Meanwhile, the more advanced Tranche 2 and 3 jets will receive a mid-life upgrade, which is to be developed in 2021 and run through 2032. Those fighters are expected to serve beyond 2045.