I wonder why the split the order between F16’s and Typhoons. I suspect it was to keep both parties from having too much power over suspending spare parts and to keep each supplier reasonable in price. But carrying spares and logistics for two types of planes when you could cut it to one must be awfully expensive. Also, you’d think, doubling the order would substantially cut the price. This is clearly politics over money, though.
If you have 2 types you might be able to survive parts for one being cut off.
It’s a policy practiced across the Persian Gulf: of keeping the Yanks happy to ensure regional stability and currying favour with former colonial powers (UK and France) given the pretty brittle nature of most monarchies there.
Because they were just thinking of political favors to friends. The Oman air force won’t ever do anything serious. Its another of those’national pride’ air forces.
Or maybe the Typhoon and the Viper are suited for different missions.