UK and Saudi Arabia sign MoI for 48 extra Typhoon fighter jets.

By Nathan Gain

The UK government has signed a long-awaited Memorandum of Intent with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to aim to finalize discussions for the purchase of 48 Eurofighter Typhoon jets. "This is a positive step towards agreeing a contract for our valued partner," confirmed Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems Chief Executive, in a statement.

RSAF single-seat Typhoon figher jets
(Credit: Eurofighter GmbH/Jamie Hunter)

"We are committed to supporting the Kingdom as it modernises the Saudi Armed Forces and develops key industrial capabilities critical to the delivery of Vision 2030," Woodburn added without giving further details.

This MoI still required the details but things are looking good for BAE Systems, which is recording another success in the Middle East just a few months after Qatar signed a contract for 24 Typhoon fighter jets in December 2017.

This major announcement comes as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to London today turned to defense and security on Friday as he met British defense minister Gavin Williamson.

Saudi Arabia on 2007 signed a US$41 Bn deal with BAE Systems for 72 Tranche 2 Typhoon jets, with deliveries ended in 2017. Saudi Arabia then took delivery of 48 single-seaters and 24 twin-seaters.