Turkey Secures 20 Eurofighter Jets in Deal with UK
On October 27, 2025, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed a significant arms deal with Turkey, involving the purchase of 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets. The agreement, valued at £8 billion (approximately $10.7 billion), was signed during Starmer’s meeting with Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara.
Strengthening NATO Ties
This deal marks a notable step in strengthening defense relations between Turkey and Britain, both key NATO allies. In July, the two nations had established a preliminary agreement for the acquisition of 40 Typhoon jets, approved by Eurofighter consortium members, including Germany, Italy, and Spain.
Context of the Purchase
Turkey is bolstering its air defense capabilities amid regional tensions, notably with Israel, which has conducted military strikes across the Middle East. The Turkish government hopes that the Eurofighter acquisitions will help counter regional threats and modernize its aging fleet of fighter jets, primarily composed of F-16s.
NATO’s Strategic Position
With the second-largest military in NATO, Turkey plays a crucial role in European defense strategies. As the security situation in Eastern Europe evolves, Turkey has become a vital partner in strengthening NATO’s eastern flank. Recently, Turkey has also explored obtaining F-35 jets from the United States.
Additional Aircraft Acquisitions
- Turkey plans to receive 12 used Eurofighter Typhoons from Qatar and Oman to address urgent defense needs.
- There are ongoing discussions to fill the gap before Turkey’s indigenous KAAN fighter jets become operational.
- In 2024, Turkey secured a $7 billion contract for 40 F-16s, although deliveries have faced delays.
Starmer’s visit to Turkey was his first since taking office in 2024, highlighting the importance of the bilateral relationship amid shifting global alliances. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, this deal underlines Turkey’s commitment to updating its defense capabilities and reinforcing its position within NATO.
