U.K. Typhoon enhancements enter operational evaluation phase

LONDON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Upgrades to the U.K. Eurofighter Typhoon, set to replace the Tornado jet by the end of 2018, have entered the operational evaluation, BAE Systems said.

The first phase of enhancements is part of Britain's Project Centurion, which aims to deliver a seamless capability transition from Tornado to Typhoon, BAE said in a statement

Upgrades will offer various new capabilities, including additional human-machine interface technologies, as well as additions to the aircraft air-to-surface targeting capability.

The latest upgrades have successfully undergone trial installation with a Royal Air Force test squadron.

Phase 2 enhancements are up next, which will see the initial integration of the Meteor beyond visual range air-to-air missile and the Storm Shadow stand-off air-to-surface weapon.

Each phase of enhancements will move through joint customer and industry installation, operational evaluation and squadron training before being declared operational.