Fighters from the Eurofighter fleet make their way back to Wittmund from Laage. - Jet Fighter Transfers from Laage to Wittmund within Eurofighter Squadron
The German Air Force is preparing for a significant return as Eurofighters are set to touch down at the Wittmund Air Force Base in East Frisia, following a three-year absence. The Tactical Air Force Wing 71 "Richthofen" in Wittmund, one of the four Eurofighter locations of the German Air Force, will once again become the home of these advanced aircraft.
The Tactical Air Force Wing 71 "Richthofen" was temporarily relocated to Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania at the beginning of 2022 due to the inadequacy of the existing infrastructure at Wittmund. Pilots, soldiers, and civilian employees of the wing have relocated to the base of the Tactical Air Force Wing 73 "Steinhoff" in Laage during this period.
The return of the Eurofighters to Wittmund is a result of a major renovation and modernization project at the airbase, which will culminate in the creation of the most modern military airport in Germany by 2032. The airport renovation, which started in 2019, includes a complete overhaul of the three-kilometer-long runway and lighting systems, as well as the taxiways. The cost of the runway renovation alone is estimated to be around 155 million euros.
The Tactical Air Force Wing 73 "Steinhoff" in Laage, the current base for the Eurofighters temporarily relocated from Wittmund, is the sister unit to the Tactical Air Force Wing 71 "Richthofen" in Wittmund. The first combat jets are expected to land in Wittmund on Thursday at 15:00, marking the official return of the Eurofighters to their original home.
Despite extensive research, there is currently no detailed information available regarding the timeline, costs, investments, or completion date for the renovation and modernization of the runway and airport infrastructure at Wittmund Air Force Base. For accurate, up-to-date details, it is recommended to consult official Bundeswehr announcements, German defense ministry publications, or specialized aviation news outlets.
- Within the plan for the modernization of Wittmund Air Force Base, the steel industry will play a crucial role in the renovation of the three-kilometer-long runway and lighting systems, as well as the taxiways, with significant investments expected to reach around 155 million euros.
- In support of the local community, financial resources are being allocated for the manufacturing sector to deliver essential components for the aerospace industry, specifically for the Tactical Air Force Wing 71 "Richthofen" in Wittmund, ensuring the continued service of the Eurofighters and the successful completion of the renovation project.
