Erdogan announces plans to build aircraft carrier within 2-3 years

Türkiye is advancing ambitious plans in its defence sector, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announcing a new aircraft carrier project and receiving encouraging signs from Germany and the United Kingdom regarding the purchase of Eurofighter jets.

Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s growing role in naval production, particularly in frigate manufacturing. “Orders keep coming in constantly. Right now, we can't keep up with them. We have significant orders from many countries, including Pakistan,” he said, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

The Turkish president also revealed ongoing negotiations with Spain to build a second, larger aircraft carrier. “We hope to complete the construction of this new carrier within two to three years and continue our cooperation with Spain. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said, ‘We’re in.’ I hope we will achieve this with the Spanish. This will complete the construction of the upper section of our ship,” Erdogan stated.

On the air force front, Erdogan expressed optimism about acquiring around 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets. “The British and the Germans have a positive approach to this matter. God willing, I believe we will receive our aircraft as soon as possible,” he said.

He added that during meetings with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, he sensed their supportive stance. “I hope we will take this step,” Erdogan affirmed.

Earlier this year, Türkiye formally submitted a request to purchase the Eurofighter jets, signalling its intent to modernise its air capabilities amid growing regional challenges.

By Vugar Khalilov