First Two New-build Aircraft to be Delivered in P1Eb FW Configuration

Airbus Defence and Space announced on 23 January it has delivered to the Spanish Air Force the first two Eurofighter TYPHOONs to be produced in the latest configuration with enhanced air-to-surface capabilities.

The aircraft were manufactured at the Getafe Final Assembly Line in the P1Eb FW (Phase 1 Enhanced Further Work) configuration, which marks a key step in the overall Eurofighter evolution plan. This same configuration is being retrofitted to in-service aircraft by other Eurofighter nations. It provides increased integration of a variety of air-to-surface weapons and enhanced targeting among other improvements.  

Spanish procurement agency DGAM took delivery of the aircraft on 22 December. They were subsequently ferried to Albacete air force base to enter service. The remaining six of the 73 aircraft currently contracted by Spain will be delivered to the same P1Eb FW standard in 2018-2019.

“The smooth introduction of these enhanced features is a vital element of Eurofighter’s evolution. It is a big tribute to the Airbus and Spanish customer teams that they achieved this on-time through effective collaboration and clearly demonstrates the rich manufacturing capability here at Getafe,” commented Alberto Gutierrez, Airbus Operating Officer, Military Aircraft.

DGAM Head of Aeronautical Systems Gen Léon Antonio Machés added “The entry into service of these aircraft is the outcome of strong collaborative activity between our personnel and those of Airbus. It is an excellent illustration of the technical expertise that will support many more years of Eurofighter industrial activity in Spain.”

TM