BAE Systems researching common weapon launcher for Typhoon

BAE Systems has received $2.6 million from Britain's Ministry of Defense to research a common weapon launcher for Typhoon fighter aircraft.

The company said it will work with missile-maker MBDA and Raytheon UK to research the launcher, which could carry multiple weapons and weapon types on one aircraft attachment point.

"Developing a common weapon launcher solution could significantly enhance Typhoon's ability to deliver increased weapons persistence and effects," said Andy Eddleston, Typhoon Product Development and Future Capability director. "Each launcher could be capable of carrying up to three weapons, providing a great deal of flexibility and persistence for the operator."

BAE said the common weapon launcher, if it eventually entered deployment, could potentially carry weapons such as the Dual Mode Brimstone 2 Missile and the Paveway IV Precision Guided Bomb. Both weapons were recently approved for integration onto the aircraft.

The Typhoon, introduced into service in 2003, is manufactured by a consortium of three companies -- Alenia Aermacchi, Airbus Group and BAE Systems -- through their joint holding company Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH.