Local sustainment and training will continue at Salem Al Sabah Base until 2029.

Kuwait’s Ministry of Defence has extended in-service support for the Kuwait Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoon fleet, with Italy’s Leonardo confirmed as prime contractor. The contract extension was announced on 25 September 2025 and is intended to underpin the aircraft’s operational availability over the coming years.

Under the arrangement, Leonardo Aviation Services will deliver integrated logistics support and training on site at Salem Al Sabah Base through to December 2029. The scope covers engineering assistance; maintenance, repair and overhaul; upgrades; supply chain management; and instruction for both aircrew and ground personnel, consolidating a local sustainment footprint for the multirole fighter.

Kuwait ordered 28 Typhoons in 2016 to bolster national air defence, with deliveries beginning at the end of 2021. Most of the aircraft have now been handed over and are in service. The jets are built in Italy and are equipped with the European Common Radar System Mk0 from Leonardo UK, an active electronically scanned array designed to enhance detection and tracking performance.

Sustained support is aimed at maximising aircraft capability and ensuring readiness for air policing and interception duties. By keeping core logistics and training activities in country, Kuwait seeks to maintain high availability while continuing to develop the skills of its personnel.

The extension further embeds Kuwait’s partnership with European industry as the Typhoon fleet matures. With the majority of aircraft already operational, the long-term service package is intended to provide continuity as the air force refines tactics and integrates the platform into daily defence operations.