BAE Systems CEO commends swift advancement in discussions regarding Turkey's acquisition of the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft.
Turkey and United Kingdom Ink Deal for Eurofighter Typhoon Jets
On July 23, 2025, Turkey and the United Kingdom signed a preliminary agreement for Turkey to acquire 40 Eurofighter Typhoon multirole fighter jets. This agreement marks a significant step towards formalizing the deal, with both nations expressing intent to finalize the contract without delay [1][3][4].
The Eurofighter Typhoon, a multirole fighter with a canard delta wing, is known for its exceptional agility and maneuverability. It can achieve supercruise, sustained supersonic flight without the use of afterburners [2]. The Typhoon is equipped with a 27mm Mauser BK-27 cannon and supports extensive weapons payload capacity, including advanced air-to-air missiles and precision-guided munitions [2].
The aircraft is powered by two EJ200 turbofan engines, developed and manufactured by the EUROJET consortium, and is available in single-seat and twin-seat variants [2]. BAE Systems, one of the main contractors in Typhoon fighter aircraft production, is responsible for final assembly in the UK and leading the export effort [2].
The Typhoon's self-defense capability is enhanced by electronic warfare systems, flare and chaff dispensers, and radar warning receivers [2]. The Typhoon measures 15.96 meters long, 10.95 meters wide, and weighs 11 tons when empty, with a maximum takeoff weight of 23.5 tons [2].
BAE Systems CEO Charles Woodburn has lauded the progress being made with Turkey on a potential order for 40 Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. The consortium structure for Typhoon production also includes the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain [2]. The Typhoon is highly preferred by the air forces of several countries, including the UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman [2].
Once a contract is signed, deliveries would likely begin within a few years, aligned with Turkey’s modernization goals. Turkey is also pursuing other air combat programs, such as its domestic fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet expected to be operational by 2028, which may influence fleet integration schedules [3].
Discussions regarding the potential order are of commercial and strategic importance. This agreement marks a milestone in Turkey's long-standing effort to secure an interim fighter solution, following Turkey's removal from the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program in 2019 [1].
[1] The Defense Post
[2] BAE Systems Press Release
[3] Defense News
[4] Jane's Defence Weekly
- The Eurofighter Typhoon, a preferred choice of several countries, is also on Turkey's radar, as discussions regarding a potential order for 40 jets are ongoing.
- With a signed deal, Turkey could potentially integrate the advanced Eurofighter Typhoon jets into its modernizing industry, a move expected to boost Turkey's aerospace sector.
- As Turkey strengthens its military capabilities, the acquisition of Eurofighter Typhoon jets could serve as a bridge until Turkey's domestic fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet becomes operational in 2028.
- The Turkish Lira may face some volatility due to the investments involved in the Eurofighter Typhoon deal, as the nation looks to balance its economy and security concerns.
- Amidst Greece's growing concern over Turkey's military acquisitions, the base for Eurofighter Typhoon jets in Ankara or Istanbul could spark debates about regional balance of power and inflationary pressures.
