UK plant assembling Eurofighter Typhoon may close due to lack of orders

The UK government is deciding whether to purchase additional Eurofighter Typhoons or to look for interested countries to support the operation of the BAE Systems plant in Wharton, where these aircraft are assembled.

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This issue was the subject of a parliamentary inquiry, but Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle did not give a clear answer on new orders. She emphasised the strategic review of defence needs and negotiations with BAE Systems on the possibility of exports.

The problem goes beyond just Eurofighter production. The closure or shutdown of the Wharton plant could affect the Tempest sixth-generation fighter programme, which Britain is developing in conjunction with Italy and Japan.

However, the final assembly of the Eurofighter is carried out not only in the UK, but also in other consortium countries: Germany, Italy and Spain. However, the British Air Force last ordered these aircraft back in 2009, when it received 112.

In terms of exports, BAE Systems has supplied Eurofighters to Qatar and Saudi Arabia. However, the deal with Riyadh for 48 fighter jets, which has been attempted since 2018, remains blocked by Germany's embargo. Berlin is also blocking a deal for 40 aircraft for Turkey, some of which were supposed to be used.

It is therefore unclear whether it will be possible to find additional export contracts to keep BAE Systems' Wharton plant, which assembles the aircraft, running.

Source: UK Defence Journal