The OpenIFS model is based on the ECMWF operational Integrated Forecast System (IFS). It is identical to IFS in forecast capability, the difference is the data assimilation and observation handling capability is not available.
This user guide covers a description of the model, installation and use. It also describes the model's input and output files. It does not deal in detail with the scientific and technical formulation of the model. Such information is available in the references listed in the OpenIFS Documentation section of the OpenIFS website.
The OpenIFS activity at ECMWF provides ECMWF models for research and teaching only. No operational use of the models are allowed.
The OpenIFS activity at ECMWF also provides versions of the IFS single column model (SCM) and the offline surface model, HTESSEL.
See also: 2.1 OpenIFS compared to IFS