Turkey is making significant strides towards acquiring the Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 4, one of Europe’s most advanced fighter jets, with negotiations with the United Kingdom reaching their final stage. The Turkish Air Force aims to procure 40 Eurofighter Typhoons, with initial deliveries expected before 2028.
Latest Status on Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 4 Procurement
Turkey has reached the final stage of negotiations with the United Kingdom for the acquisition of the Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 4. Initially considering the purchase of the Tranche 1 model, Turkey has opted for the more advanced Tranche 4 version and requested newly manufactured aircraft. According to Ministry of Defence sources, Turkey plans to acquire a total of 40 Eurofighters, with the first deliveries anticipated by 2028. However, it remains unclear whether all the aircraft to be procured will be from the Tranche 4 model.
Variants of the Eurofighter Typhoon and Turkey’s Preference
The Eurofighter Typhoon is produced in four main variants, each with distinct technological capabilities: Tranche 1, Tranche 2, Tranche 3, and Tranche 4. These variants progressively incorporate more advanced technologies. The Tranche 5 variant, expected to enter production around 2030, is unlikely to be Turkey’s choice for the time being. While Tranche 5 will feature capabilities approaching those of fifth-generation aircraft, no official statement has been made regarding Turkey’s interest in this model.
Turkey’s Air Power Strategy and Other Platforms
Turkey is undertaking a significant modernisation effort to strengthen its air force, with the Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 4 playing a crucial role in this strategy. In addition to the Typhoon, Turkey also has various plans concerning the F-16 Block 70 and F-35 fighter jets. Although Turkey was removed from the F-35 programme, discussions about rejoining the programme remain ongoing. Meanwhile, the domestically developed KAAN fighter jet is expected to enter service by 2028. The combined operation of these three key fighter platforms is intended to enhance Turkey’s air combat capabilities significantly.
Critical Defence Cooperation with the United Kingdom
Defence cooperation between Turkey and the United Kingdom extends beyond the Eurofighter Typhoon procurement. Recently, a Turkish Air Force delegation, led by Air Force Commander General Ziya Cemal Kadıoğlu, made a critical visit to the UK. Hosted by Royal Air Force Commander Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, the meetings covered not only the Eurofighter acquisition but also projects involving military transport aircraft and the development of the KAAN fighter jet. These discussions are expected to lay the groundwork for broader defence industry cooperation between the two nations.
Baykar and Turkey’s Defence Technologies: A Strategic Advantage
Turkey’s partnerships in defence with the United Kingdom offer substantial advantages. Baykar Technology’s global leadership in UAV production and the advanced systems developed by the Turkish defence industry strengthen Turkey’s position in the Eurofighter Typhoon procurement process. Additionally, domestically produced air defence systems by ROKETSAN emerge as a significant factor in Turkey’s defence collaborations with European partners.
A Comprehensive Package with F-16 Block 70 and Meteor Missile System
The Eurofighter Typhoon procurement is not just limited to the aircraft itself. Alongside the F-16 Block 70 fighter jets, Turkey is also set to receive the Meteor air-to-air missile system. The Meteor system will greatly enhance the Eurofighter Typhoon’s combat capabilities, further reinforcing Turkey’s air defence power.
Turkey’s Need for Military Transport Aircraft
In addition to the Eurofighter procurement, Turkey is also taking steps to address its military transport aircraft requirements. Applications have been made to acquire 12 C-130 Super Hercules transport aircraft from the Royal Air Force’s inventory. The progress made in these negotiations suggests that positive developments may be announced in the near future.
