Türkiye Set to Finalize $5.6B Eurofighter Jet Deal Amid Shifting Defense Alliances

Türkiye may soon finalize a multi-billion dollar preliminary agreement to purchase up to 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, a deal that could inject fresh momentum into Europe’s flagship fighter program, often overshadowed by the U.S.-led F-35 project, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Sources close to the negotiations told WSJ that while exact jet numbers and configurations are still under discussion, the agreement is estimated to be worth around $5.6 billion. The announcement is expected this week and could coincide with the International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul, signaling Türkiye’s push to modernize its air force and expand defense ties beyond the United States.

Eurofighter Back in the Spotlight

The Eurofighter Typhoon, jointly produced by BAE Systems (UK), Airbus (Germany), and Leonardo (Italy), could gain renewed prominence if the Turkish deal proceeds. The potential contract would be a critical export success, offering a geopolitical boost for European defense unity.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed ongoing discussions with UK and German leaders, stating:

“We’re actively taking steps with the UK and Germany for jet procurement. Both countries are approaching the matter positively. I believe we’ll acquire these jets soon,”
— Erdoğan, en route from a recent international visit

Political Shifts Unblock Deal

Since 2023, Türkiye has been attempting to acquire Eurofighters, but negotiations had stalled due to Germany’s export licensing concerns, largely tied to Ankara’s foreign policy stances. However, recent political changes in Berlin appear to have softened resistance.

New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hinted during a press conference in London that officials were nearing a breakthrough on export licensing, which has been a critical obstacle.

Sources say the UK-Türkiye talks have significantly progressed, and a memorandum of understanding (MoU) could be announced at IDEF as the foundational step toward the full contract.

The UK Ministry of Defence, while not commenting directly on the Türkiye deal, confirmed that it is actively supporting Typhoon export efforts in several regions.

Türkiye’s Broader Defense Strategy

This move reflects Türkiye’s effort to diversify defense procurement amid growing autonomy in foreign and military policy. With F-35 negotiations frozen and Türkiye developing its indigenous KAAN fighter jet, the Eurofighter deal signals a strategic balancing act between NATO ties and national defense priorities.

Analysts view this potential deal as not only a military upgrade, but also a diplomatic statement, strengthening Türkiye’s position within the European defense framework.