UK, Türkiye sign Eurofighter support deal to boost defense ties

2026-03-25 - 11:49

The United Kingdom and Türkiye signed a new technical and logistical support agreement Wednesday for the Eurofighter Typhoon jets, solidifying defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. The deal was finalized in London during a meeting between Turkish National Defense Minister Yaşar Güler and British Defense Secretary John Healey. Long-term readiness secured According to a statement from Türkiye's National Defense Ministry, the agreement focuses on ensuring the long-term maintenance and operational readiness of the aircraft under the Eurofighter Typhoon Project. Officials noted that a separate procurement contract covering the jets, equipment and munitions was already signed last October. The latest deal complements that acquisition by guaranteeing sustained technical support. Strengthening defense ties During their talks in the British capital, the two defense chiefs also discussed broader cooperation between their nations. Both sides expressed commitment to further deepening defense collaboration in the coming years. Britain, a leading partner in the Eurofighter program, has been Türkiye's most vocal advocate within the consortium. Acquisition context Türkiye secured an £8 billion ($10.7 billion) deal last year to purchase 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets. The agreement followed extensive negotiations after Ankara overcame a German veto on the sale in 2024. The latest support contract represents another milestone in the growing defense partnership between London and Ankara.