Billions for Aviation — Why Turkey Will Have to Wait Years
BAE Systems has begun production of 20 Eurofighter jets for Turkey, but the first deliveries are expected only in 2030. The deal is valued at $3.36 billion, with the contract signed in March 2026. Deliveries will occur in three phases: six aircraft in 2030, eight in 2031, and six in 2032. Turkish Defense Minister Yashar Güler announced the inclusion of Meteor missiles in the package. For preparation, Turkish specialists will travel to the UK in August 2026. Meanwhile, Ankara is negotiating the purchase of used Eurofighters from Qatar and Oman, but timelines are delayed due to geopolitical tensions.
British company BAE Systems has begun production of 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets for Turkey, but the first deliveries are expected only in 2030. The deal is valued at approximately $3.36 billion, with the contract signed in March 2026 as a continuation of an order from October 2025. Deliveries will be phased: six aircraft in 2030, eight in 2031, and another six in 2032. Turkish Defense Minister Yashar Güler noted that the package includes special underwing containers and modern weaponry, including Meteor missiles. For operational preparation, Turkish specialists will travel to the UK in August 2026, where the Royal Air Force will train 10 pilot instructors and about 100 maintenance instructors. In parallel, Turkey is negotiating the purchase of used Eurofighters from Qatar and Oman, with an expected transfer of 12 aircraft from Qatar, but timelines face delays due to geopolitical tensions. Thus, Ankara must focus on the long term to close the Air Force deficit by 2030.