The Typhoon (formerly EFA – European Fighter Aircraft) is a single seat, STOL capable aircraft optimised for air superiority/air defence and ground attack roles. Germany, Italy and Spain are UK partners in the most costly European collaboration programme to date.

The air forces of the four countries have ordered a total of 620 Eurofighters (UK 232, Germany 180, Italy 121, and Spain 87). The UK will receive its aircraft in 3 x Tranches. Tranche 1 - 55 aircraft (mainly air defence aircraft with some multi-role towards the end of the tranche). Tranche 2 - 89 aircraft Tranche 3 - 88 aircraft.

The original estimated procurement cost of the RAF Typhoons was some £16.7bn, including research and development costs – making it the most expensive weapon system yet produced for the UK armed forces. The latest unit cost estimate is £64.8 million across Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 aircraft.

Typhoon is a fifth-generation combat aircraft with fully digital, integrated aircraft, avionics and weapon systems. Typhoon is designed to perform at least five air missions. air superiority, air interdiction, Suppression of Enemy Air Defence (SEAD), Close Air Support (CAS) and Maritime Attack. It may in time be modified to fulfil naval aircraft carrier roles, and a navalised version of Typhoon may be the longer term answer to the Joint Strike Fighter programme if difficulties with the United States cannot be resolved.

The aircraft is designed to carry 6 x medium-range and 2 x short-range air-to-air missiles. The aircraft has 13 x store stations and an internal gun fitted on the starboard side. A range of air-to-ground weapons can be carried, including the new Storm Shadow CASOM, Brimstone anti-armour weapon, and the future Precision Guided Bomb (PGB). No modifications will be necessary to carry "smart" weapons and 3 stations can carry external fuel pods. The Captor radar is a collaboration European design. Other sensors include the Infra-Red Search and Track (IRST) system. The Defensive Aids Sub System (DASS) equipment is carried in 2 x wing pods that are an integral part of the wing. The datalink is provided by the Multiple Image Data System (MIDS). The aircraft will be able to operate from a 500 metre strip.