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While the Eurofighter Typhoon procurement process, which came to the agenda within the scope of Türkiye's strategy to strengthen its air power, is being closely monitored by international defense circles, remarkable news about the course of the process came from respected aviation journalist Gareth Jennings.
Jennings pointed out that the project is not progressing smoothly, stating that "some obstacles that need to be overcome still exist" regarding Türkiye's acquisition target.
According to Gareth Jennings' report, the nature of one of these obstacles is described as "quite sensitive" by the Eurofighter CEO.
These two statements reveal that the project in which Türkiye aims to acquire 40 new-generation fighter aircraft is progressing on a complex and multi-layered diplomatic ground beyond its technical and financial dimensions.
The basic dynamics of the project are formed by the structure of the international consortium that produces the aircraft.
For the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter aircraft developed in partnership between the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, and Italy to a country, all four partners must give unanimous approval.
While it is known that the United Kingdom and Spain view Türkiye's request favorably, it is of critical importance for all partners to give the green light for the process to be finalized.
It is assessed that the "obstacles" pointed out by journalist Jennings and the issue characterized as "sensitive" by the CEO stem from this unanimity requirement within the consortium.
Although no country has made a clear public opposition statement against Türkiye's request, it is understood that the sales approval process might contain political and diplomatic sensitivities.
Turkish Ministry of National Defense (MoND) sources recently displayed cautious optimism regarding the process, stating that negotiations with counterparts continue, and the evaluation phase continues after receiving the official proposal.
Türkiye is keeping the Eurofighter option on the table as a strategic move that will keep its deterrence at the highest level during the period until the National Combat Aircraft KAAN enters the inventory, while advancing its efforts for F-16 Block 70 procurement and modernization kits from the U.S.
Türkiye's interest in acquiring Eurofighter jets began in 2022 amid challenges to modernize its aging fighter aircraft fleet. The procurement process has developed through several key phases:
2022-23: Türkiye initiated discussions with the United Kingdom and Spain, seeking to bypass German objections to the sale.
November 2023: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz during the U.N. General Assembly, advancing diplomatic discussions.
November 2024: Germany approved the sale, and Türkiye submitted its detailed technical requirements for the aircraft.
January-March 2025: Türkiye received and began evaluating a formal proposal from the U.K. Ministry of Defense.
The procurement plan reportedly includes up to 40 Eurofighter aircraft. According to defense industry sources, the arrangement includes 20 second-hand Tranche 1 aircraft from the U.K. and 20 new Tranche 4 jets intended to enter service by 2030.
Recent reports from Turkish defense media suggest a more detailed procurement schedule has emerged, indicating Türkiye will acquire 20 Tranche 4 and 20 Tranche 5 aircraft from the U.K., with deliveries scheduled for 2027 (T4) and 2028 (T5).
Additionally, unconfirmed reports indicate the U.K. may donate 28 Tranche 1 Eurofighter aircraft previously set aside for disposal to Türkiye at no cost.
The potential Typhoon deal is significant for Türkiye as it seeks to modernize its air force following its removal from the U.S.-led F-35 program.
Türkiye was excluded from the F-35 program in 2019 due to its purchase of the Russian S-400 missile defense system, which was met with strong opposition from the US and NATO.
As a result, Türkiye has been exploring alternative options to modernize its fleet, and the Eurofighter Typhoon is seen as a strategic alternative to the F-35.
The potential deal could include up to 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, split between used Tranche 1 aircraft from the U.K. and new Tranche 4 jets, which are intended to enter service by 2030.
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