WSJ: Türkiye poised to announce preliminary Eurofighter jet deal worth billions

Türkiye is on the verge of unveiling a preliminary agreement for the purchase of Eurofighter Typhoon combat aircraft, potentially this week, according to two individuals familiar with the ongoing talks.

The prospective deal, which may be revealed during a major defence industry fair in Istanbul, would mark a significant boost for Europe’s defence sector, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Wall Street Journal.

It would also lend renewed momentum to the Eurofighter programme, which in recent years has been eclipsed by the prominence of the U.S.-made F-35.

Sources suggest the order could be worth approximately $5.6 billion and include up to 40 fighter jets. However, discussions around the final number of aircraft and their specific configuration remain ongoing.

“Türkiye could announce a preliminary deal for a multibillion-dollar order of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets as early as this week,” said one of the individuals.

Türkiye is pushing forward with ambitious defence projects, including a new aircraft carrier and expanding naval production, particularly frigates, with strong export orders from countries like Pakistan.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced ongoing talks with Spain to build a second, larger aircraft carrier, aiming for completion within two to three years.

On the air force side, Türkiye seeks to acquire around 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, with positive signals from the UK and Germany.

Erdoğan expressed optimism following meetings with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, underscoring Türkiye’s drive to modernise its military amid regional challenges.

By Aghakazim Guliyev