Jobs in Britain secured as Oman is set to buy Eurofighter combat jets

Prime Minister Gordon Brown's spokesman said the Gulf state had indicated an intention to purchase the jets.

Number 10 said it could not at this stage say how many of the planes – known as Typhoon – would be involved in the deal.

But it did say the deal would help secure British jobs.

"Over the past three years, the Prime Minister and HM The Sultan of Oman have had wide-ranging discussions on the importance of the close relationship between our two countries," the spokesman said.

"In this spirit, we are pleased that the Government of the Sultanate of Oman has indicated its intention to buy Typhoon aircraft for the Royal Air Force of Oman.

"This will further enhance the strong strategic relationship between the UK and Oman."

Defence giant BAE Systems, which builds part of the aircraft with European partners, said yesterday: "Oman is a country with which we have a long and valued relationship and we stand ready and willing to support any requirement it has." Shadow defence minister Gerald Howarth said last night: "If this contract is signed, it will reinforce the strong links between the Sultanate of Oman and the United Kingdom.

"But it also demonstrate that the Typhoon is one of the leading swing role combat aircraft in the world.

"It is a tribute to Britain's defence industry, which we are keen to support."

The aircraft is already in service and Britain is committed to taking 232 of the 600-plus aircraft, which is the largest individual order.