Q&A · 15:30-16:38

Why a Tomahawk would be an awkward load for Typhoon

The missile's length, the available hardpoints, and its aerodynamic effects make it an awkward proposal; no British aircraft already fitted to carry Tomahawk is identified.

Question

Could Britain adapt a Eurofighter Typhoon to carry a nuclear-armed Tomahawk?

Short answer

The missile's length, the available hardpoints, and its aerodynamic effects make it an awkward proposal; no British aircraft already fitted to carry Tomahawk is identified.

Notes

The first obstacle is fitting the missile to an aircraft. No British aircraft already equipped to launch Tomahawk comes to mind, although aircraft that could theoretically have been adapted are acknowledged. The Typhoon proposal raises a specific comparison between the missile's length, the aircraft's size, and the positions of its hardpoints. A C-130 launch suggestion prompts a brief mention of Rapid Dragon, without developing that alternative into a detailed solution.