British Aerospace EAP ZF534 lined up on the runway. Technology demonstrator for the Eurofighter Typhoon. Photo by Stuart H.
Copyright Stuart H Bourne QAPI
British Aerospace EAP ZF534 captured lined up on the runway in this rare archival image by Stuart H. Bourne. This aircraft is the sole example of the Experimental Aircraft Programme (EAP), a technology demonstrator that directly influenced the design and development of the Eurofighter Typhoon.
Constructed in 1986 using components from the Tornado and Italian-built wings, ZF534 was designed to test advanced fighter technologies including fly-by-wire control systems, delta wing with canards, and carefree handling. It first flew on 8 August 1986, piloted by BAe test pilot David Eagles, reaching speeds of Mach 2.0 and performing over 250 sorties before retirement in 1991.
After its flight career, ZF534 was transferred to Loughborough University as a static instructional airframe, and later moved to the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, where it remains on public display. This image captures the aircraft in its original trials configuration, showcasing its sleek lines and experimental pedigree.
