Türkiye Eyes $10 Billion UK Defense Deal Amid US Arms Blockade

Türkiye is intensifying efforts to diversify its military modernization strategy as arms procurement hurdles persist in the US Congress. According to diplomatic sources who spoke to Middle East Eye (MEE), Ankara is in early-stage negotiations with the United Kingdom over a potential $10 billion defense package. The prospective deal reportedly includes Eurofighter Typhoon jets, C-130J transport aircraft, Type 23 frigates, and engines for M60 tanks, signaling Türkiye’s push to strengthen ties with European defense partners amid growing geopolitical constraints.

Akar–Wallace Meeting Highlights Strategic Partnership

The talks gained traction after Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar met with his British counterpart Ben Wallace in London. The meeting centered on enhancing bilateral defense cooperation, expanding procurement opportunities, and exploring joint production models. A spokesperson for the UK Ministry of Defence confirmed the meeting, stating: “The Defense Secretary met with his Turkish counterpart to strengthen the defense relationship between our two countries. Progress was made on several issues, including procurement.”

Washington’s F-16 Roadblock Triggers New Alliances

Türkiye’s engagement with the UK follows months of political obstacles in Washington, where members of the US Congress have blocked the sale of 40 new F-16 fighter jets and 79 modernization kits. Some US lawmakers have objected to Türkiye’s Syria policy and its tensions with Greece, tying the sale’s approval to Türkiye’s stance on Sweden’s NATO membership. In the aftermath of being expelled from the F-35 fighter program and facing persistent delays in Western defense cooperation, Ankara has turned toward alternative partners to bridge short-term capability gaps in air and ground defense systems.

Eurofighter Typhoon and C-130J Aircraft on the Table

According to MEE, Türkiye is considering purchasing two squadrons of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, amounting to 24 to 48 aircraft jointly produced by the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Turkish officials acknowledge that integrating Eurofighters into the Turkish Air Force would require time for training and infrastructure adaptation. However, temporary access to Qatari-owned Eurofighters—which have been deployed in Türkiye—could accelerate operational readiness.
The defense dialogue also covered the potential acquisition of C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft, which the UK’s Defence Equipment Sales Authority (DESA) plans to sell between 2023 and 2025. Turkish defense planners view these aircraft as valuable reinforcements to the country’s A400M fleet, especially for missions in Libya and Africa, where strategic airlift capabilities remain crucial.

Tank Engines and Naval Assets Expand the Package

Another critical aspect of the proposed deal involves engine upgrades for Türkiye’s M60 main battle tanks. Sources note that due to recurring delays in Altay tank engine production, Ankara has been evaluating modernization options with UK-based suppliers to keep its ground fleet operational.
Additionally, Türkiye is reportedly in talks to acquire Type 23 frigates from the British Royal Navy—ships the UK Ministry of Defence approved for sale in 2023. These vessels could significantly enhance Türkiye’s naval power projection, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea regions.

Industrial Cooperation: Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems

The defense cooperation framework extends beyond sales. It encompasses technology sharing and joint manufacturing, reflecting the deepening industrial partnership between Ankara and London. Rolls-Royce, in collaboration with Türkiye’s Kale Group, continues work on developing an indigenous engine for the TF-X (KAAN) national fighter jet. Meanwhile, BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) are jointly working on stealth design and fuselage technologies, contributing to Türkiye’s long-term goal of achieving defense self-sufficiency.
In May 2024, the UK lifted all defense export restrictions on Türkiye, a move widely seen as a turning point that accelerated bilateral cooperation and paved the way for the current negotiation process.

Political Timing: Decisions Likely After Elections

Diplomatic insiders suggest that Ankara’s final decision on the UK defense deal may come after the upcoming presidential elections. One source told MEE: “The new government’s defense procurement strategy could differ, depending on political and strategic priorities.”
Until then, Türkiye appears determined to expand its defense diversification, reduce dependency on the US market, and strengthen alliances that offer mutual technological benefits. The evolving Türkiye–UK partnership marks not just a procurement shift, but a strategic realignment within NATO, reflecting Ankara’s pursuit of greater autonomy in defense policy.