The official visit of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to Ankara signals a new phase in defence cooperation between Britain and Turkey, as the long-anticipated Eurofighter Typhoon agreement reaches completion. The deal involves the sale and transfer of 40 high-performance fighter jets, marking one of Turkey’s most significant defence procurements in recent years.
Filling the gap in Turkey’s air power
Turkey has been seeking to modernise its air force as its existing fleet, primarily composed of US-made F-16s, has become outdated. Negotiations with the United Kingdom, one of the leading members of the Eurofighter consortium alongside Germany, Spain, and Italy, began in 2023. The breakthrough came in 2024, when Germany lifted its veto on aircraft sales to Turkey, paving the way for the final deal.
A preliminary agreement for 40 Eurofighters was signed in July, with technical discussions and cost negotiations continuing through 2025. Although the overall price exceeded Turkey’s initial expectations, both sides pushed for a swift conclusion. Under the current plan, 20 aircraft will be operated initially by the British Royal Air Force for rapid transfer, while the remaining 20 will be customised to Turkish standards before delivery.
Symbolic timing and regional expansion
Ahead of Starmer’s visit, two Eurofighter jets were flown to Ankara, a gesture underscoring the strategic weight London attaches to the deal. At the same time, Turkey is moving to acquire used Eurofighters from Qatar and Oman, having signed separate agreements for their maintenance and modernisation.
The latest version of the jet, known as Tranche 4, features upgraded radar, avionics, and electronic warfare systems, offering a major boost to Turkey’s air defence capabilities. The acquisition is expected to bridge the gap until the country’s indigenous fighter jet “Kaan” becomes operational in 2028.
Strategic and political implications
Turkey’s decision to turn to European partners for military cooperation reflects a strategic recalibration after years of strained relations with the US over defence exports. The Eurofighter deal provides technological leverage, symbolic prestige, and a temporary but significant enhancement of its deterrence capabilities.
Beyond its military dimension, the agreement embodies a broader geopolitical balancing act, one that involves economic considerations, regional competition, and Turkey’s ambition to maintain autonomy while strengthening ties with Western allies. Over the next decade, this shift is expected to reshape power dynamics across southeastern Europe and the Middle East.
Source: lifo.gr