Germany Orders 20 New Eurofighters

A 3D rendered artist’s impression of the Eurofighter Tranche 5 | Image: Airbus Defence and Space SAS

Germany has signed a contract for the purchase of 20 additional Eurofighter aircraft to expand and modernize its Air Force fleet. Airbus Defence and Space will assemble the multi-role fighters at its facility in Manching, near Munich, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2031 and conclude in 2034.

The agreement marks Germany’s latest procurement under the Eurofighter programme, jointly developed by Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The aircraft serve as the primary combat component of the German Air Force and are central to NATO’s integrated air defence network.

According to Airbus Defence and Space CEO Mike Schoellhorn, the new order reflects the aircraft’s continuing role in the country’s defence planning. “The continued evolution of the Eurofighter serves as an essential technological and operational bridge to a Future Combat Air System,” he said.

The new Eurofighters will be equipped with the latest electronic systems, including an electronically scanned array (E-Scan) radar and an electronic warfare package based on Saab’s Arexis sensor suite. These upgrades will also be integrated into Germany’s existing Eurofighter fleet.

Airbus said the enhancements are intended to improve situational awareness, survivability, and operational flexibility in future missions. The Eurofighter platform is expected to remain in service with the German Air Force into the 2060s, operating in conjunction with next-generation systems developed under the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project, which is scheduled to enter service around 2040.

The Eurofighter programme involves more than 100,000 jobs across Europe, including around 25,000 in Germany. To date, nine countries have ordered over 740 aircraft, including Germany, the UK, Spain, Italy, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar.