Media: Ankara dismisses reports of German veto on Eurofighter deal

Türkiye has not received any official notification from the German government regarding a reported veto on the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, according to sources familiar with the matter in Ankara.

German media outlets have suggested that Berlin has blocked a potential sale of Eurofighter aircraft to Türkiye, citing political tensions, Caliber.Az reports, citing CNN Turk.

However, Turkish officials say these claims have not been confirmed through diplomatic channels.

The Eurofighter is a joint venture involving the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Ankara’s main interlocutor in the procurement process is the UK, and British officials have not relayed any indication of a German veto, CNN Türk’s Ankara bureau chief Dicle Canova reported.

“There has been no formal communication from Berlin suggesting a veto,” Canova said, adding that “talks between consortium partners are ongoing, and the UK has not conveyed any concern to Ankara thus far.”

Some reports in the German press have linked the alleged veto to political considerations, including the case of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. However, no official statement has been issued by the German government. The current coalition government in Berlin, composed of Social Democrats and Greens, is set to leave office on May 6, raising the possibility that the situation could evolve under new leadership.

Meanwhile, negotiations between Türkiye and the UK continue over a 40-aircraft package. Ankara believes the process is proceeding smoothly. Discussions are ongoing about whether the package would include a mix of new and second-hand aircraft, which could affect both cost and delivery timelines.

“If some of the jets are second-hand and ready for immediate delivery, the overall timeline could be shortened and costs reduced,” one source said. “All options are currently on the table.”

Türkiye is also in parallel talks with the United States over the acquisition of F-16 fighter jets and is exploring the possibility of re-engaging with the F-35 programme under the next US administration. Legal pathways to circumvent CAATSA sanctions are also reportedly under review.

The outcome of these negotiations could have wider implications. Ankara views its role in European security as critical, and a formal veto by a fellow NATO ally could prompt Türkiye to reconsider aspects of its strategic alignment.

Nonetheless, in the absence of any formal communication indicating a problem, Turkish officials maintain that the Eurofighter procurement process is continuing as planned.

By Aghakazim Guliyev