Germany is enhancing its air defence capabilities with the purchase of 20 new Eurofighter Typhoons, to be produced by Airbus at its final assembly line in Manching, near Munich. The first aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2031, with the final unit expected in 2034.

“This new order is further proof of the Eurofighter’s importance to the German Air Force and the strategic role it plays in our country’s air defence and NATO capabilities,” said Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space. “The continued evolution of the Eurofighter serves as an essential technological and operational bridge to a Future Combat Air System, ensuring a seamless transition to the next generation of air power.”

The new Eurofighters will feature the latest sensors, including the electronic E-Scan radar, alongside the integration of Arexis electronic warfare capabilities, developed by Saab, across both existing and new aircraft. These upgrades will enhance the German Air Force’s surveillance, strike and electronic warfare capabilities.

As Europe’s largest defence programme, involving Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK, the Eurofighter supports security while driving economic growth and employment. The programme sustains over 100,000 jobs in Europe, including 25,000 in Germany, with 120 German suppliers involved. To date, nine countries have ordered more than 740 Eurofighters, making it Europe’s most successful fighter jet programme in production.

The Eurofighter fleet is planned to remain in service until the 2060s. Within the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), expected operational from 2040, the Eurofighter will operate networked with current and next-generation crewed and uncrewed aircraft, continuing to support pilots in fulfilling critical missions.