Turkey embraces Eurofighter jets amid F‑35 setback
Turkey is endeavouring to modernise its air force, which relies predominantly on F-16 aircraft. Negotiations with the USA have been challenging, so Ankara has opted to acquire Eurofighters from British factories. We present the background of this decision and assess the performance of these aircraft.
Due to a dispute with the Americans, partly linked to the procurement of the Russian S-400 system, the Turks have been barred from participating in and receiving F-35 aircraft. Moreover, in 2024, Turkey withdrew from an agreement to upgrade its F-16 fleet, which the domestic industry will now modify.
This situation compelled Ankara to seek another partner, which fortuitously became the United Kingdom. The initial plans to purchase Eurofighters from the UK surfaced in 2023 but were obstructed by Germany. Due to the production of specific aircraft components, Germany has a right of veto, which they exercised.
The British took nearly two years to lift the veto, and it is notable that the future of the BAE Systems factory in Warton depends on this sale. As the Turks report, the United Kingdom has presented a contract proposal for the sale of 40 aircraft, which could lead to further orders.
These aircraft will enable the Turks to counter the current Greek advantage, gained through the acquisition of French Rafale aircraft, in the event of potential conflicts over Cyprus, which has been a point of contention between Ankara and Athens for decades.
European guardian of the skies
The Eurofighter Typhoon is a versatile fighter jet created by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo. Its design features delta wings and a canard configuration, a sophisticated solution that has only garnered interest in recent decades. This configuration ensures excellent manoeuvrability at low and high speeds, including supersonic speeds.
The Eurofighter Typhoon is powered by two engines, which allow it to reach a maximum speed of Mach 2, approximately 2,450 km/h. Moreover, it can maintain supersonic flight without afterburners, reaching Mach 1.2, corresponding to approximately 1,470 km/h.
Pilots of this fighter jet can access advanced multifunctional displays (MHDD) or utilise Helmet Mounted Symbology System (HMSS) displays. These enable quick access to information without diverting their attention from their surroundings.
The Eurofighter Typhoon can carry a wide range of weapons on 13 pylons, lifting more than 9,000 kilograms of payload. Among the available weaponry options are medium-range air-to-air missiles such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM, MBDA Meteor, short-range missiles like IRIS-T, AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-132 ASRAAM, anti-armour missiles Brimstone, guided bombs from the Paveway or JDAM/ER family, and cruise missiles TAURUS KEPD 350.
For the Turks, the MBDA Meteor missiles will be particularly advantageous. Their range to target enemy aircraft can reach up to 200 kilometres, significantly improving the AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles.
