Turkey and UK Sign MoU for 40 Eurofighter Typhoons

Turkey and the United Kingdom moved closer to a major defense agreement by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the potential procurement of 40 Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets. The signing took place at the International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) in Istanbul on March 15, 2024. Turkish Minister of National Defence Yasar Güler and UK Defence Secretary John Healey officiated the ceremony, which aims to enhance Turkey’s combat capabilities.

The MoU, while not a final contract, signals a significant step in discussions. According to the UK Ministry of Defense, this agreement demonstrates the government’s commitment to securing new defense deals and strengthening international relationships. Healey expressed optimism, stating, “Equipping Türkiye with Typhoons would strengthen NATO’s collective defense and boost both our countries’ industrial bases by securing thousands of skilled jobs across the UK for years to come.”

In response, the Turkish Ministry of Defence described the MoU as “excellent progress.” The UK government indicated that negotiations with Turkey would continue in the upcoming weeks regarding the multi-billion-pound deal. This development is particularly encouraging for BAE Systems, which leads the export campaign for the Eurofighter consortium that includes Germany, Italy, and Spain.

Charles Woodburn, CEO of BAE Systems, emphasized the importance of the MoU in reinforcing long-standing defense cooperation between Turkey and the UK through NATO. He stated that Typhoon jets play a critical role in security within Europe and the Middle East. The company aims to work closely with both governments to formalize a procurement agreement for the aircraft and associated supplies.

The Eurofighter consortium has broader ambitions as well, actively pursuing export opportunities in Austria, Poland, and Saudi Arabia. The plan includes a significant production ramp-up, targeting a rate of 30 aircraft per year starting in 2028, which would more than double current output. To date, a total of 729 Eurofighter Typhoons have been ordered, with the aircraft already in operation with nine air forces worldwide.

This momentum builds on discussions initiated in 2023, when Güler first revealed plans for Turkey to acquire 40 fighter jets. Analysts have noted that Turkey’s interest in the Eurofighter may serve a dual purpose, potentially leveraging its position in negotiations with the United States over an alternative acquisition of F-16 jets. Ali Bakir, a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, stated that the prolonged delays surrounding F-16 negotiations have led Turkey to view the Eurofighter as a viable alternative.

As Turkey and the UK continue their negotiations, the outcome of this potential deal could significantly impact both nations’ defense strategies and economic landscapes. The agreement not only aims to enhance military capabilities but also seeks to secure employment opportunities within the UK aerospace sector.