BAE Systems personnel will continue to help provide in-service support for the fleet of Typhoon fighters flown by Britain's Royal Air Force.

The extension of the company's Typhoon Availability Service contract is for 15 months and carries a value of about $162.2 million.

"This agreement is a continuation of a strong partnership with the Ministry of Defense and RAF to support its Typhoon fleet," said Nigel Davey, BAE Systems director for Military Air Support. "Over the past six years we have worked hard to develop a service which ensures the RAF is able to meet its operational requirements while providing the best value for the UK's taxpayers.

"BAE Systems is proud to support the fleet at RAF Coningsby, RAF Lossiemouth and in the Falkland Islands as it continues to perform its vital role in safeguarding our nation both at home and overseas."

Under the contract extension, BAE Systems will continue to deliver Typhoon aircrew and ground crew training. It will also maintain the fighters and provide technical support and management of spare parts and repairs.