The development and entry into service of the Eurofighter Typhoon has been carried out in production blocks, called Tranches. Each Tranche represents an evolution of the aircraft by adding new technologies and operational capabilities:
Tranche 1
Entry into Service: 2003
Focus: Air superiority missions.
Features: Basic air-to-air capabilities and limited air-to-ground capabilities. Initial production Tranche is primarily used for training and low-risk missions. Requires greater modernization.
Technological Features:
CAPTOR-M mechanically scanned radar
Fly-by-wire flight control system
Air-to-air missiles such as AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder
Limited air-to-ground munitions (Paveway)
Tranche 2
Entry into Service: 2008
Focus: Multi-role missions.
Features: Advanced sensor integration, wider range of weapons and advanced software capabilities. This Tranche is optimized for air-to-ground operations and has a structure better suited to modern warfare scenarios.
Technological Features: Advanced air-to-ground munitions such as Brimstone and Storm Shadow
Tranche 3
Entry into Service: 2013
Focus: Enhanced operational flexibility and maintainability.
Features: More powerful avionics systems, modern sensors and expanded fuel capacity. Additionally, CAPTOR-E AESA Radar integration and long-term service life are targeted. Tranche 3 aircraft have a modular structure that can be more easily adapted to future technologies.
With the integration of the Meteor Air-to-Air Missile and CAPTOR-E AESA Radar, Typhoon Tranche 3 has significantly increased its capability for air combat.
Tranche 4
Focus: Providing superiority against new generation threats.
Features: Advanced avionics infrastructure, increased structural durability and greater mission adaptability. This Tranche stands out as a structure that represents the future of Typhoon and enables it to continue to compete with other combat aircraft.
Typhon production currently continues with Tranche 4. New weapon and pod development activities for Tranche 4 are ongoing. By 2030, the Eurofighters of the German Air Force will be made suitable for electronic warfare under the name Typhoon-EK.
Tranche 4 is the configuration that Turkey also plans to purchase.