Germany reportedly seeks guarantees from Türkiye over Eurofighter sale

Germany is limiting arms sales to Türkiye, demanding guarantees on how weapons will be used, especially concerning Eurofighters and tank components, according to sources familiar with the discussions spoke to the Ragip Soylu‘s Middle East Eye report.

While Berlin approved naval weapons sales, officials expressed concern over the use of German-made weapons in conflicts, notably in Syria.

Naval weapons approved, but restrictions persist

German officials told their Turkish counterparts that naval weapons, including anti-aircraft missiles and torpedoes, would be supplied. The approved $368 million sales package will also include materials to modernize Turkish submarines and frigates.

However, Germany has resisted approving sales of aircraft and tank parts without written assurances on their use.

Eurofighter sale delayed by bureaucracy

Negotiations for Türkiye‘s potential purchase of 40 Eurofighter Typhoons, valued at $5.6 billion, are progressing slowly. Sources say Germany’s coalition government, particularly the Greens party, opposes the sale.

Germany has also requested written guarantees that Eurofighters will not be used in disputed Greek airspace, a condition Ankara finds unacceptable.

German concerns over Türkiye’s use of weapons

Germany is hesitant to advance requests for land-based weaponry, such as tank parts, without guarantees that they won’t be used in offensive military operations abroad.

Berlin’s concerns are rooted in previous uses of German-made Leopard tanks by Türkiye in Syria and internal security operations.

Political context and future discussions

The discussions come amid heightened regional tensions, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expected to visit Ankara on Oct. 19. The visit could also include talks on the repatriation of Turkish citizens whose asylum applications were rejected in Germany.