Turkey Strengthens Air Defence with Eurofighter Typhoon Deal

The United Kingdom and Turkey have solidified their defense partnership with a significant agreement. On Monday, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer inked a deal with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, facilitating Turkey's purchase of 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets for £8 billion. This agreement aims to bolster Turkish air defenses and deepen NATO allies' ties.

The deal is a progression from a prior preliminary agreement in July that involved the purchase of 40 Typhoons. The Eurofighter consortium, represented by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, had accepted the terms, marking an important phase in military collaboration. The advanced jets will assist Turkey in leveling with regional adversaries, particularly after recent tensions escalated due to Israeli air strikes across the Middle East.

This partnership indicates Europe's growing reliance on Turkey. As NATO's second-largest military power and a key drone exporter, Turkey is poised to reinforce NATO's eastern flank. Turkey's efforts to upgrade its fleet are part of a broader strategy to address security concerns posed by neighboring air threats. The visit to Ankara marks Starmer's inaugural diplomatic trip to Turkey since assuming office last year.