Analysis: that is why Eurofighter Typhoon still has chances in Poland

Eurofighter Typhoon Poland Harpia Program
Eurofighter Typhoon multirole combat aircraft.

Many analysts consider the F-35 already in the hands of the Polish Air Force even if a contract has not yet been signed. What is the reason for this delay? On September 11, the Pentagon gave the green light for the sale of 32 steath fighters to Poland and the nation had repeatedly declared its intention to close the deal quickly. The main contender for the F-35 in Poland is the Eurofighter Typhoon multirole combat aircraft.

The italian aerospace company Leonardo, the lead in Eurofighter promotion in Poland, said that the position of the United States in the country is very strong, but it is sure that the European solution to Poland's multi-role combat aircraft requirement is great from both strategic and industrial perspectives.

"A few years ago no one believed Poland would select our M-346 as a trainer, but they did, and now they are thinking of taking more. From a Eurofighter perspective, we’ve got a great offer — a weapon system that’s perfect for air supremacy — and a great history of industrial collaboration in Poland through the Eurofighter Partner Companies that generates a huge economic impact in the country," Andrea Nappi, Vice President Eurofighter Export from Leonardo Aircraft Division, told to Eurofighter Magazine.

Today the Eurofighter has taken many steps forward. It boasts both air dominance and digital stealth capabilities due to its advanced electronic warfare (EW) suite, incorporating mission data fusion, including threat intelligence, electronic counter measures (ECM) and an open reconfigurable system. The ongoing Phase 2 Enhancements (P2E) package increases operational flexibility,y with enhanced Eurojet EJ200 engine performance due to adaptive power and cooling, the incorporation of a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) with Large Area Display and advanced mission system architecture, including High Speed Data Network and Enhanced Target Data Management. New sensors will help the platform to cope with current and future contested operational environment, as well as the most advanced EW capabilities with integrated mission solutions and PRAETORIAN DASS, along with full integration of MBDA’s METEOR and BRIMSTONE missiles.

The potential of the Typhoon is not to be underestimated. It has been in service since 2003 and a total of 623 aircraft has been ordered to date, with 564 already delivered. The type has been ordered by nine customers and is currently in service with seven countries. It is combat-proven, with 5,500 flying hours, including the latest British deployments to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. Both its procurement and enhancement programmes are set to continue as Germany will be replacing its original 33 Tranche 1 aircraft with the same number of Tranche 3. In addition, the Eurofighter program is strongly connected to the development of the sixth generation Tempest combat aircraft.

"Being involved in development work would position Poland as a potential partner at a high level in any future European Combat Air System, or FCAS, programme (such as the UK-led Tempest programme for example) as that emerges. Poland would be a perfect candidate to participate in any future programme and Eurofighter would be the perfect way in," Andrea said.

Written by Matteo Sanzani
Image: Katsuhiko Tokunaga


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