we do though as BAE has been awarded a contract by UK MoD for the the full production of 40 radars. Which will probably be integrated onto the 40 Typhoons of the RAF between 2028-2030. We also know our 20+20 EF will be delivered 2030 onward meaning Mk2 will be most likely the radar they will be delivered with.
Im sorry but I don’t get what you are trying to argue against here. Sometimes it feels like some of you guys just argue against things just to be contrarian.
Also comparing the possible purchase of Omani EF to a signed contract is weird. One was never a done thing and MoD mentioned weeks ago that there are still talks to be held with all parties meanwhile we have a signed contract for 20 EF.
and if there is the possibility of Qatar being okay with handing over all 24 EF in inventory of course it makes sense to go with them as they are the superior and younger planes. Though I would still take the Omani ones if they are willing to part with them for cheap.
We don't know the delivery timeline of Mk2s for RAF T3s. Mk2 is touted as being IOC ready by 2030, not 2028. UK still looks at all this as firstly a jobs program; lengthening the timelines work in their favor. MK2 is in testing, LTE is being studied, Phase 4 is still just a thing that exists but not "real".
"He added that work continues with NETMA and Eurofighter partner nations to ensure that “the international programme scope includes all essential UK features, and that these are prioritised to deliver in time for the RAF to test and field the ECRS Mk2 radar by 2030.”
A series of written parliamentary answers has shed light on the remaining obstacles facing delivery of the Typhoon’s new European Common Radar System Mk2, while also clarifying the pace of procurement and the wider Eurofighter enhancement programme.
ukdefencejournal.org.uk
Turkish EF contract with BAE is also not a done thing. Details are still being worked out; we don't know the specifics, delivery timelines and or specific equipment that will be installed. We don't even know what tranche the Turkish EFs will be built under. There was lots of back and forth with Germany in the last year, it might very well be that Mk1 will be installed on them instead, there's nothing announced, we don't know.