DefenseEurofighter Typhoon fighters to receive aerodynamic modification kit
Eurofighter and NETMA signed a contract on Thursday to proceed with the development, testing, and certification of the Aerodynamic Modification Kit (AMK) for the Eurofighter Typhoon.
The AMK is an aerodynamic upgrade package intended to accelerate the integration of new weapons and the certification of additional external stores.
According to the program, this includes future anti-radar missiles designed to suppress and destroy enemy air defense radars, as well as other air-to-ground weapons and air-to-air missiles for core customers. Later phases are expected to cover newer stand-off missile variants.
From a technical standpoint, the AMK introduces changes to the aircraft’s aerodynamics through extensions to fuselage strakes, flaperons, and the leading-edge root. These modifications increase maximum wing lift, which supports higher external loads and improves handling in demanding flight regimes, including close-range air combat.
Development and production work will be carried out by the Eurofighter partner companies Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo.
Jorge Tamarit-Degenhardt, chief executive officer of Eurofighter, said the AMK “will significantly enhance the integration of air-to-surface configurations and offer greater flexibility in stores carriage, while supporting flight performance.” He added that capability upgrades are intended to keep the Typhoon effective as a core element of European air defense over the coming decades.
NETMA general manager Air Vice Marshal (ret.) Simon Ellard said the agreement enables continued evolution of the aircraft and “delivers the capabilities needed by our Air Forces,” with a focus on faster weapon integration and certification of heavier loads.
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