In a significant move towards bolstering military capabilities, Turkey and the United Kingdom have agreed to advance discussions on the export of Eurofighter Typhoon jets. This development marks a pivotal moment for Turkey as it seeks to enhance its fighter aircraft fleet with a leading European consortium’s advanced aircraft.
As negotiations are set to progress, the U.K. government expressed optimism about finalizing a deal soon. This comes after Turkey’s ongoing efforts since 2023 to procure the Eurofighter jets faced challenges, particularly due to hesitation from Germany regarding export licenses. For more details, visit the U.K. government statement.
Turkey’s current fighter fleet primarily comprises older F-16 jets. The nation faced a setback when it was suspended from the F-35 program following its acquisition of S-400 air-defense systems from Russia. Meanwhile, Turkey is working on its indigenous fifth-generation KAAN stealth fighter, although it remains in the prototype stage. For more information on the KAAN fighter, click here.
“Today’s agreement is a big step towards Turkey buying U.K. Typhoon fighter jets,” U.K. Defence Secretary John Healey remarked. “Equipping Turkey with Typhoons would strengthen NATO’s collective defense, and boost both our countries’ industrial bases.”
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by Healey and Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler outlines a framework for further collaboration. An actual export agreement would not only fortify defense ties but also bolster both nations’ defense industries through potential reciprocal purchases.
This potential multi-billion-pound export deal would be the U.K.’s first Eurofighter order since 2017, supporting up to 20,000 British jobs involved in the program. Turkey is reportedly eyeing the purchase of up to 40 jets.
While the U.K. has not disclosed specific financial details, Spain’s recent order of 20 Eurofighters for €2.04 billion offers a benchmark. Turkey’s potential acquisition of 40 jets could be valued at approximately €4 billion, considering additional equipment and service requirements.
Under the Eurofighter work share agreement, 37% of each aircraft will be manufactured in the U.K., with remaining components produced by partner nations. The final assembly would occur at BAE Systems’ facility in Warton, England, with other components sourced from Edinburgh and Bristol.
The Eurofighter consortium, comprising the U.K., Germany, Spain, and Italy, continues to expand its reach. BAE Systems emphasized its commitment to working closely with the Turkish and U.K. governments to formalize the procurement agreement. For BAE’s official statement, click here.
Currently, the U.K. leads as the largest Eurofighter operator with 159 jets, followed by Germany with 141 and additional orders. Italy and Spain also maintain significant fleets, while Saudi Arabia holds the largest number outside Europe with 71 jets.
Turkey’s regional rival, Greece, employs the French Rafale alongside older F-16s and Mirage 2000s and has placed orders for F-35s. The Rafale’s advanced Meteor missiles provide a notable advantage in beyond-visual-range engagements over Turkey’s current F-16s.
