Turkey maintains interest in Eurofighters despite advancements in US F-16 deal
Turkey has affirmed its ongoing interest in acquiring 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, according to a Turkish defense ministry official. This announcement comes in the wake of the United States advancing a $23 billion deal to sell F-16 fighter jets to Ankara.
In November, Turkey had indicated its discussions with Britain and Spain regarding the purchase of Typhoons, despite objections from Germany. At that time, a source from the Turkish defense ministry revealed that talks had commenced due to concerns that Ankara's initial request for F-16 jets from the U.S., made in October 2021, might not materialize.
Last week, the Biden administration formally informed Congress of its intent to proceed with the sale of 40 Lockheed Martin F-16s and nearly 80 modernization kits to Turkey. This decision came after Ankara completed the ratification of Sweden's NATO membership.
While it is not anticipated that Congress will obstruct the F-16 sale, Turkey remains interested in procuring Eurofighter Typhoon jets, as stated by a Turkish defense ministry official who requested anonymity.
"We are still interested and we are hopeful for a positive response from Germany, a consortium member," noted the official.
The Eurofighter Typhoon jets are manufactured by a consortium consisting of Germany, Britain, Italy, and Spain, represented by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo.
Turkey, seeking to enhance its air force capabilities, is also engaged in the development of its indigenous combat aircraft, KAAN, in collaboration with BAE.
