Negotiations between Turkey and the United Kingdom for the procurement of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets have reached a critical stage. It is expected that the final signatures will be signed during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Ankara next week.
Political delays in Turkey’s long-standing talks with the United States for the acquisition of F-16 Block 70s have pushed Ankara toward European alternatives. In this context, the Eurofighter Typhoon has emerged as the most realistic option for modernizing Turkey’s air force in the short and medium term.
Deliveries from RAF Production Line
According to the agreement, the aircraft to be delivered to Turkey will be selected from the new-generation Eurofighters currently on the Royal Air Force (RAF) production line. This approach aims to accelerate the delivery process and ensure that the aircraft arrive in their latest configuration.
Fleet Expansion with Qatari and Omani Jets
Another component of the deal involves adding Eurofighter aircraft currently operated by Qatar and Oman to Turkey’s inventory. The jets to be procured from Oman will undergo a modernization process by the manufacturer before being delivered to the Turkish Air Force. This step will also require new logistical and maintenance planning, as it will diversify the support infrastructure.
Pilot Training and Integration Process
Once the agreement is signed, Turkish pilots’ training and adaptation programs will begin simultaneously. Most of the training is expected to take place in the United Kingdom and Germany, while Turkey will restructure its simulator infrastructure to align with the Eurofighter system.
Source: @tdefenceagency
