Turkiye Considers Buying Eurofighter Typhoon Jets Amidst Uncertainty Over F-16 Deal
Turkiye is exploring the possibility of purchasing 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets from European states after its request for F-16 aircraft from the US faced uncertainty. The Turkish Defense Ministry source revealed that discussions have begun with Britain and Spain, although Germany has expressed objections.
Defense Minister Yasar Guler recently announced that Turkiye was in talks with Britain and Spain regarding the acquisition of Eurofighter Typhoon jets. However, Germany’s opposition to the deal has complicated matters. In light of this, Guler held discussions with his British counterpart, Grant Shapps, in Ankara on Thursday to further explore the potential purchase. Turkiye aims to procure the most advanced version of the Eurofighter.
In October 2021, Turkiye, a NATO member, submitted a request to purchase 40 Lockheed Martin F-16 fighters and 79 modernization kits for its existing warplanes. While President Joe Biden’s administration supports the $20 billion sale, objections have been raised in the US Congress due to Turkiye’s delay in NATO enlargement and concerns about its human rights record.
Adding to the complexity, Turkiye has informed NATO that the ratification of Sweden’s membership bid will not be completed by the alliance’s foreign ministers meeting next week. This further complicates the situation surrounding Turkiye’s defense procurement plans.
The Turkish Defense Ministry source stated, “Turkish air forces need new aircraft. Our first choice is F-16s… But considering the possibility that we might not get a positive response in this prolonged process, the Eurofighter Typhoon jets are the most suitable alternatives to F-16s.” The source also mentioned that officials from the UK have expressed their willingness to help convince Germany to withdraw their objections.
The Eurofighter Typhoon jets are manufactured by a consortium consisting of Germany, Britain, Italy, and Spain. These countries are represented by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo. The acquisition of Eurofighters is seen as crucial for Turkiye to maintain its position in the Western defense industry and ensure regional power balances.
Defense analyst Tayfun Ozberk highlighted the significance of Turkiye’s need for advanced fighter jets, stating, “For regional power balances, Turkiye’s need for a new technology fighter jet is no secret.” He further suggested that Turkiye’s move to acquire Eurofighters may serve as a means to pressure the Biden administration to persuade Congress to expedite the sale of F-16s.
Serhat Guvenc, an international relations professor at Kadir Has University, emphasized the importance of the Eurofighter Typhoons for Turkiye’s defense industry. He stated, “The Eurofighter Typhoons are really the last chance to keep Turkiye in the Western defense industry.”
As Turkiye explores alternative options for its defense procurement, the outcome of discussions with European states regarding the purchase of Eurofighter Typhoon jets remains uncertain. The decision will have significant implications for Turkiye’s military capabilities and its position within the Western defense industry.