DefenseEurofighter Typhoon Sale to Turkey Advances as Germany Lifts Objections
Negotiations for the sale of 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets to Turkey have progressed to an advanced stage after Germany withdrew its opposition, Airbus Defense and Space CEO Michael Schoellhorn confirmed.
The development follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Turkey and the United Kingdom on July 23 during the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul.
The German policy change comes after the formation of a new government under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, which has prioritized strengthening European defense industries and NATO capabilities amid evolving security concerns. Berlin’s approval removes a key barrier to the multinational Eurofighter consortium exporting the aircraft to Ankara.
Turkey currently operates a fleet of approximately 238 F-16C/D and 48 F-4E combat aircraft. The country sought the Eurofighter to address its medium-term fighter requirements after its removal from the F-35 program in 2019.
The Eurofighter acquisition is intended to bridge capability gaps while Turkey develops its indigenous KAAN fighter, which remains in the testing and development phase. The KAAN program is positioned as a long-term solution for Turkey’s combat air requirements.
Further steps in the Typhoon procurement process are expected to include formal contract negotiations and production planning.
The Turkish government is also reportedly in negotiations with Qatar for the potential acquisition of used Eurofighter Typhoon jets.
About the Author
Ricardo Meier
Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.
