DefenseUK and Turkey Finalize Eurofighter Typhoon Deal in Ankara
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer finalize the sale of 20 Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft to the Turkish Air Force. The agreement worth $11billion will include 20 new-build aircraft to Tranche 4 standard.
The sale follows negotiations that began in 2023. The deal between the UK and Turkey was enabled when Germany withdrew its objections to the transaction.
Starmer hailed the deal as "a victory for British workers, a victory for our defence industry and a victory for NATO security."
Turkey is also in talks with Qatar and Oman to acquire used Eurofighter jets from their existing fleets. These parallel negotiations indicate Ankara’s intent to expand and modernize its air combat capabilities in the short term.
The Eurofighter acquisition is intended as a bridge until Turkey’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter, the KAAN, enters operational service, projected for 2028.
Turkey is additionally considering upgrade programs or new purchases of F-16 Block 70 and maintains interest in rejoining the F-35 program despite past expulsion.
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