The United Kingdom and Turkey have signed an initial agreement paving the way for Turkey to acquire Eurofighter Typhoon jets, following a long-awaited green light from Germany that had previously blocked the deal.
The breakthrough comes after months of negotiations and diplomatic pressure, with Berlin reportedly lifting its objections earlier this month, clearing a path for Turkey’s integration into Europe’s premier multi-role fighter program.
Under the preliminary deal, Turkey is expected to purchase up to 40 Eurofighter Typhoons, bolstering its air force modernization program amid rising tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean and growing regional security concerns.
A Strategic Shift
The Eurofighter agreement marks a significant pivot in Turkey’s defense posture and its relationship with NATO allies. Ankara had previously expressed frustration over Germany’s hesitance to approve arms sales due to political tensions over human rights and regional conflicts. However, with the UK, Spain, and Italy consistently backing the sale, the German reversal signals a recalibration of intra-European defense cooperation.
“This agreement reflects a shared commitment to strengthening NATO’s collective defense,” said a UK Defense Ministry spokesperson. “The Eurofighter is a symbol of European aerospace excellence, and Turkey’s participation enhances interoperability among key allies.”
Bolstering Turkey’s Air Power
The Turkish Air Force has long sought to modernize its fleet as it phases out aging F-4 Phantoms and deals with uncertainty over its access to American F-35 jets, which were withheld after Turkey purchased Russian S-400 missile systems in 2019.
With this new Eurofighter deal, Turkey ensures it maintains advanced air combat capabilities while deepening defense ties with European partners.
Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Güler welcomed the agreement, stating, “This step fortifies Turkey’s air superiority and strategic autonomy. It is also a positive sign of renewed trust among European allies.”
What’s Next?
The initial memorandum outlines the framework for delivery, training, and joint production components, though final contracts are expected to be signed later this year. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Turkish aerospace firms may also be involved in the long-term maintenance and parts supply of the jets.
As geopolitical dynamics shift, the Eurofighter deal underscores Turkey’s growing emphasis on diversified defense partnerships, while reaffirming its position within the NATO military alliance.
