UK scraps aging Typhoons, Ukraine not receiving jets
The United Kingdom will not transfer Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 1 jets to Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. London made this decision due to the limited combat capabilities of the Typhoons.
The United Kingdom has decided to withdraw Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 1 jets from service. As reported by Defense Express, these aircraft will not be transferred to Ukraine, despite earlier speculations. This decision arises from the limited combat capabilities and technical condition of these aircraft.
The future of Eurofighter Tranche 1
According to Defense Express, out of the 49 Tranche 1 fighters, 17 have already been withdrawn, and 11 are in storage. One is slated for scrapping soon, while 10 will be dismantled for spare parts. Four aircraft will be used for technical training, and only two may be sold abroad.
Limited combat capabilities
The Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 1, delivered since 2002, has limited combat capabilities compared to newer versions. Despite being upgraded to Block 5, their combat value is questionable. Modernizing to newer versions proved too costly, discouraging the British from further investment. Defense Express also notes that the fact only two out of the 49 fighters can be sold highlights their limited combat value.
To clarify, the Eurofighter Typhoon is a versatile fighter jet developed through the collaboration of Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo. Its design features delta wings and a canard configuration. This uncommon design choice has gained popularity in recent decades, offering excellent maneuverability at both low and high speeds, including supersonic.
Equipped with two engines, the Eurofighter Typhoon can achieve a maximum speed of Mach 2, or approximately 1,520 mph. Furthermore, it can maintain supersonic flight without using afterburners, reaching Mach 1.2 (about 914 mph).
The Eurofighter Typhoon can carry a wide range of weaponry on 13 pylons, supporting over 20,000 pounds of payload. Available weapon options include medium-range air-to-air missiles, such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM and MBDA Meteor, short-range missiles like IRIS-T, AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-132 ASRAAM, anti-tank missiles Brimstone, guided bombs from the Paveway or JDAM/ER family, and TAURUS KEPD 350 cruise missiles.
