British multinational defense contractor BAE Systems has kicked off flight tests for its new Typhoon Tranche 3 fighter jet.

According to BAE, the Tranche 3 incorporates hundreds of under-the-skin changes that can futureproof the aircraft, which makes it an attractive option for new buyers.

The first Tranche 3 was produced for the RAF by the Eurofighter consortium, which was assembled by BAE Systems.

A total of 112 aircraft have been ordered for the four European partner nations of Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK, with 40 aircraft bound for the Royal Air Force as part of the Tranche 3A contract signed in 2009.

Read more at: http://www.airforce-technology.com/news/newsbae-flight-tests-new-combat-aircraft-typhoon-tranche-3-4144106