Ankara, July 10 - The United Kingdom has formally submitted a proposal to sell 40 Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets to Turkey, marking a significant step in Ankara’s ongoing efforts to modernize its air force and strengthen defense ties with European partners. This development, reported by the Turkish news outlet Ekonomim on July 8, 2025, follows years of negotiations previously stalled by geopolitical tensions and objections from Germany, a key member of the Eurofighter consortium. The offer, conveyed through discussions involving Turkish Minister of Defense Yaşar Güler, representatives from BAE Systems, and the British ambassador to Turkey, signals a potential shift in Turkey’s defense procurement strategy as it seeks to diversify its air capabilities amid strained relations with the United States.
.gif)
The Eurofighter Typhoon, a 4.5-generation multirole fighter developed by a consortium of Germany, the UK, Italy, and Spain, is produced by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo. The proposed deal includes 40 Tranche 4 jets, the most advanced variant, equipped with enhanced air-to-air combat capabilities and modern radar systems like the CAPTOR-E air defense system. Turkey has also stipulated the inclusion of Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, which would significantly boost its combat effectiveness against long-range targets, even in environments with heavy electronic countermeasures. The procurement is being overseen by Turkey’s Ministry of Defense, reflecting the strategic importance Ankara places on the deal. Reports indicate that the configuration may involve a mix of 20 new Tranche 4 jets and 20 second-hand Tranche 1 jets, potentially from the UK’s Royal Air Force, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026 and full operational capability projected by 2030.
Turkey’s pursuit of the Eurofighter Typhoon stems from its need to address a fighter gap as it awaits the development of its indigenous fifth-generation KAAN fighter, slated for delivery between 2028 and 2030. The Turkish Air Force, which operates over 240 aging F-16s, has faced challenges in modernizing its fleet, particularly after its exclusion from the U.S. F-35 program in 2019 due to its purchase of Russian S-400 air defense systems. This decision led to heightened tensions within NATO and prompted Turkey to explore European alternatives. While Turkey secured a $23 billion deal in 2024 for 40 new F-16 Block 70 jets from the U.S., the Eurofighter acquisition would diversify its fleet and reduce reliance on American platforms, aligning with Ankara’s broader strategic objectives.
The deal’s progress has been facilitated by a shift in Germany’s stance under Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration, which has adopted a more permissive approach to arms exports compared to its predecessor. Germany’s initial objections, rooted in concerns over Turkey’s geopolitical actions and domestic policies, had long delayed the sale, as unanimous approval from all four Eurofighter consortium nations is required. The UK, Spain, and Italy have consistently supported the deal, with the UK leading technical discussions on aircraft specifications, maintenance schedules, and pilot training. The proposal’s submission in March 2025, following Turkey’s formal request in January, marks the most concrete advancement to date. For Turkey, the Eurofighter deal represents not only a boost to its air power but also an opportunity to deepen defense cooperation with European allies amid shifting regional dynamics. The acquisition complements Turkey’s ongoing efforts to integrate domestically produced munitions and systems into its fleet, enhancing its operational autonomy. For the Eurofighter consortium, the deal is critical to sustaining production lines, particularly as European air forces transition to next-generation platforms. If finalized, the sale could reshape Turkey’s role in NATO’s southeastern flank and reinforce its integration into European defense supply chains, fostering long-term industrial and strategic partnerships.
