BAE has revealed a new naval Typhoon combat jet for the Indian Navy at the Aero India 2011 show held in Bengaluru, India.
The new combat jet has been produced in response to an Indian Navy request for information (RFI) on a new naval fighter issued last year, according to Defense News.
BAE air business development vice-president Paul Hopkins said the aircraft model of the naval Typhoon was aimed solely at the Indian Navy.
The aircraft model had a number of modifications including the conformal tanks and thrust vectoring nozzles, a strengthened undercarriage, strengthening of the airframe and other requirements to make it seaworthy.
Hopkins said the jet would be capable of operating from the 45,000t Russian carrier Admiral Gorshkov, which can accommodate short take-off but arrested recovery (STOBAR) flight.
Saab’s naval version of a STOBAR-capable Gripen fighter, the F/A-18 and Rafale are also in the competition.
