Germany appears ready to end its multi-year veto against Turkey, approving the sale of Eurofighter jets to Ankara and opening a new chapter in defense relations between the two countries. Specifically, Berlin has decided to accept Airbus’s preliminary request regarding Turkey, launching official negotiations for aircraft delivery, according to sources. It’s noted that during German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul’s visit to Ankara on Friday (October 17), technical details and negotiation points for Eurofighter procurement will be a central discussion topic.
Read: Battle for Safe: Greece blocks Turkey while Germany and Rutte apply pressure
Germany: Turkey as “key strategic partner”
Meanwhile, as Wadephul stated in his interview with Hurriyet newspaper, Turkey acquiring these specific fighter jets serves the interests of both his country and NATO. “Germany and Turkey face major challenges in strengthening NATO’s defense capabilities in Europe. We decided that Turkey, as an ally, can enhance its deterrent power with Eurofighter assistance. This serves our interests, as Turkey represents a key strategic partner for us within the Alliance. However, negotiations on details are still ongoing,” the German minister said, among other statements.
The Eurofighter Typhoon program
It should be noted that the Eurofighter Typhoon program represents Europe’s most advanced aviation cooperation, jointly developed by Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain. Sales to third countries require approval from all four nations. While Turkey had received positive signals from London and Madrid since 2022, Berlin’s opposition remained the biggest obstacle to completing the agreement until now. Ankara plans to initially acquire 24 Eurofighter jets, with intentions to increase the number to 40 aircraft in a second phase. The total agreement value, including training, technical support, spare parts, and software licenses, is estimated at approximately $6 billion.
Each aircraft costs about $120 million, while part of production and maintenance is expected to take place in Turkey, strengthening the domestic defense systems industry. The majority of fighters are expected to come from the United Kingdom and Spain, countries that have already declared their intention to actively support the program.
