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Turkey has officially submitted a request to the United Kingdom for the purchase of 40 Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets, seeking to modernise its air force and strengthen its combat capabilities. The request was reported by Defence Security Asia, confirming that the Turkish Ministry of Defence is awaiting approval from British authorities. If granted, the contract would be overseen by BAE Systems, which plays a key role in the assembly of Typhoon aircraft at its facility in Wharton.

The deal has been in discussion for several years, with Turkey exploring Eurofighter Typhoons as an alternative to the F 35 fighter jet after being excluded from the United States led programme due to its purchase of Russian S 400 air defence systems. In 2022, Turkish officials acknowledged their interest in acquiring Typhoon fighters as a temporary solution to strengthen their air force.

Turkey has been negotiating with the Eurofighter consortium, which includes the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, and Germany. However, Germany has previously opposed the sale, citing concerns that Turkey could use the aircraft in military operations against Kurdish forces in Syria and Iraq. Despite this, in November 2024, the German government signalled a shift in its stance, confirming it would lift its block on the export of Typhoon jets to Turkey.

The Turkish government is specifically interested in acquiring the Tranche 4 variant of the Typhoon, which features an advanced CAPTOR E radar system and modernised missile capabilities, including Meteor air to air missiles. The new fleet is expected to complement Turkey’s existing F 16 aircraft and enhance its aerial combat strength.

Following the German government’s policy change, negotiations intensified in late 2024. In December, two Royal Air Force Typhoon jets were sent to Ankara, allowing Turkish officials to assess the aircraft’s capabilities firsthand. The United Kingdom, as a key member of the Eurofighter programme, is expected to play a leading role in facilitating the sale.

Pressure from other members of the Eurofighter consortium has influenced Germany’s decision to approve the sale, as the contract would provide significant economic benefits for the companies involved. The final approval from the British government is now the last major step before the deal can proceed.