BAE systems eyes major Eurofighter Typhoon deals With Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar

British defence giant BAE Systems is optimistic about securing new export orders for its Eurofighter Typhoon jets from countries including Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, as the company works closely with the UK government on ongoing negotiations.

Richard Hamilton, Managing Director for Europe and International at BAE Systems Air sector, expressed confidence in the potential sales during a media briefing at the company’s Warton facility in northern England on July 15, Caliber.Az reports via Daily Sabah.

"We're working with the U.K. government on a number of those campaigns presently," Hamilton said. When asked if he believed these efforts would translate into confirmed orders, he replied, "Yeah, absolutely," noting the possibility of up to 150 new Typhoon jets being ordered.

Hamilton attributed the company's optimism to Britain’s continued investment in upgrading the Typhoon’s capabilities, which is expected to extend the aircraft’s operational lifespan and enhance its appeal to export customers.

"The confidence it gives the export partner, you know, with the Saudis, with the Turkish, when they see that this thing has a life, it just makes the whole conversation so much easier," he said.

The Eurofighter Typhoon is produced by a consortium of four nations—Germany, Britain, Italy, and Spain—through their respective defence contractors: Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo.

However, concerns have emerged in the UK over the future of domestic production lines. British trade unions warn that without fresh orders, final assembly lines for the Typhoon could face a work shortage by the 2030s.

Türkiye is currently in negotiations to purchase up to 40 Eurofighters to modernise its air force. Yet, any export deal must be unanimously approved by all four partner nations. Germany has previously opposed the deal with Ankara, although recent diplomatic efforts suggest progress.

Last month, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan discussed the jet purchase with UK and German leaders on the sidelines of the NATO summit, describing the talks as showing “positive developments.” Echoing this sentiment, British Consul General Kenan Poleo stated last week that negotiations with Türkiye are advancing "quite positively."

Despite having NATO’s second-largest army, Türkiye has often faced arms embargoes in the past. In response, the country has expanded its domestic defence industry over the last two decades, now producing drones, missiles, and naval vessels independently.

Türkiye is also developing its own fifth-generation fighter jet, named Kaan, intended to replace the aging F-16 fleet starting in the 2030s. Mass production of Kaan is scheduled to begin in 2028.

By Sabina Mammadli