Widely recognised for its success in commercial aviation, Airbus also makes a global impact in the defence sector with a comprehensive and high-tech product portfolio. In addition to passenger aircraft, helicopters, and space solutions, Airbus develops a diverse range of military platforms including fighter jets, transport aircraft, aerial refuelling tankers, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
One of its most well-known projects is the Eurofighter Typhoon — a supersonic, multirole fighter aircraft developed in partnership with the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Currently operated by 10 countries, Turkey became the latest nation to join the programme with a preliminary agreement signed in July 2025 for the procurement of the aircraft.
Eurofighter Typhoon: Europe’s Multirole Combat Jet
Produced through a partnership between Leonardo and BAE Systems, the Eurofighter Typhoon is a highly manoeuvrable aircraft capable of swiftly switching between air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Powered by twin EJ200 engines delivering 40,000 pounds of thrust, the Typhoon can reach speeds up to Mach 2.3 and has a maximum altitude of 55,000 feet. Its carbon fibre and glass composite airframe offers advantages in both weight reduction and low radar signature.
Equipped with advanced sensors, the aircraft features an electronically scanned radar, passive infrared tracking, digital warfare systems, and defensive aid subsystems that set it apart from its competitors.
Heavy Transport and Aerial Refuelling Capabilities
Beyond fighter jets, Airbus plays a key role in logistics operations with heavy transport aircraft like the A400M and tactical airlifters such as the C295. The four-engine A400M offers a payload capacity of 81,600 pounds, while the C295, capable of carrying up to 70 personnel, is designed for reconnaissance and close air support missions.
Additionally, the A330 MRTT, with a fuel capacity of 70 tonnes, has been adopted by 15 countries to date and has logged over 310,000 flight hours providing in-air refuelling support to jets like the F-16, F-35, and Eurofighter Typhoon.
UAV Systems and Space-Based Surveillance
Airbus also stands out with its advanced UAV systems. The Eurodrone serves as a versatile platform for long-range surveillance and intelligence operations, while the Zephyr operates as a high-altitude pseudo-satellite (HAPS) flying above 40,000 feet. The company also reinforces its presence in the unmanned aerial space with tactical UAVs such as the Flexrotor, Aliaca, and Capa-X, along with the maritime UAV VSR700.
The next-generation surveillance UAV, SIRTAP, was unveiled for the first time at the 2025 Paris Air Show. Capable of operating in all weather conditions, this system reflects Airbus’s innovative approach in UAV technologies.
A Brand Shaping Europe’s Defence Power
Airbus is a prominent player not only in commercial aviation but also with its extensive military product range. From the Eurofighter Typhoon to the A400M, C295, A330 MRTT, and Eurodrone, this diverse offering cements Airbus as one of the cornerstones of Europe’s defence industry.
