Germany reviews sale of 40 Eurofighter jets to Türkiye

Germany is in negotiations for the sale of 40 Eurofighter jets to Türkiye, with the U.K. and Spain already approving the deal. While the U.K. and Spain are on board, the deal is still under review by Germany, which leads the Eurofighter consortium.

Germany’s Ambassador to Türkiye Sibylle Katharina Sorg emphasized the importance of Türkiye’s security concerns and highlighted ongoing cooperation between the two countries, particularly regarding Syria.

Why it matters

The sale of Eurofighters to Türkiye is not just a military acquisition—it’s a reflection of the shifting defense landscape between Türkiye and its European allies. This deal could mark the end of what many European countries have perceived as a de facto arms embargo against Türkiye.

Additionally, it holds geopolitical significance, as it highlights Türkiye’s growing defense needs and its pursuit of modern, advanced military technology, all while balancing its relationships with NATO and the EU.

Details

• Eurofighter negotiations: The Eurofighter deal is a joint project involving Germany, the U.K., and Spain, with the U.K. and Spain already approving the deal. However, Germany, as the lead country in the Eurofighter consortium, remains the key decision-maker. Türkiye is looking to acquire 40 Eurofighter jets, which would significantly enhance its air defense capabilities.
• Arms export process in Germany: Germany has always been cautious when it comes to arms exports, particularly to regions of conflict or strategic tension. This is evident in the thorough and lengthy review process each arms export undergoes, involving both the federal government and the German parliament. While Germany has been cautious in its approval of arms deals in the past, it has continued to engage in successful defense collaborations with Türkiye, such as the joint M400 missile system and submarine projects, signaling that despite the scrutiny, defense cooperation between the two countries continues.
• Türkiye’s NATO, EU relations: The Eurofighter deal is part of a broader shift in Türkiye’s defense dynamics, with its relationships within NATO and with European powers evolving. The finalization of this sale could pave the way for deeper military and strategic cooperation between Türkiye and European countries. The deal could serve as an important indicator of how Türkiye’s role in NATO and its defense relations with the EU develop moving forward.
• Impact on Türkiye’s defense posture: For Türkiye, acquiring the Eurofighter jets would greatly enhance its military capabilities, ensuring that it remains a powerful force in the region. Given Türkiye’s strategic location and its complex geopolitical relations, strengthening its defense posture is of utmost importance. The deal could also bolster Türkiye’s security situation, especially as it faces threats from neighboring regions and instability in the Middle East.

The Eurofighter deal also ties into broader discussions about Türkiye’s relationship with the EU and NATO. While Türkiye has faced significant challenges in its accession process to the EU, particularly in terms of human rights and democratic standards, defense cooperation continues to be a key area of engagement.

The Eurofighter deal could be seen as a positive development in this context, signaling that despite political differences, defense cooperation is a pragmatic area where Türkiye and its European partners can collaborate. The deal could be a stepping stone towards improving overall relations between Türkiye and Europe.