Turkey is awaiting submission of a sales contract and pilot training program draft from Qatar for Eurofighter Typhoon combat aircraft. The Defense Ministry stated during Thursday's weekly press briefing that ongoing negotiations with Qatar and Oman cover technical and logistical matters. Turkey will procure 20 Typhoons under an agreement signed with Britain last year; an additional 24 aircraft from Qatar and Oman are targeted for acquisition.

The Eurofighter agreement between Turkey and Britain aims to deepen bilateral ties between the two NATO allies and strengthen Turkish air defense capabilities. The agreement was finalized following extensive negotiations to overcome Germany's initial objections to the sale. Britain, as a leading partner in the Eurofighter program, has been Turkey's strongest supporter. Turkish and Qatari delegations held discussions in August and September covering the scope of aircraft and ammunition procurement, as well as training for pilots and maintenance personnel.

The Eurofighter Typhoon is a multirole combat aircraft jointly developed by four nations: Britain, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The system provides NATO-standard air superiority through advanced radar, avionics, and weapon integration capabilities. The aircraft performs air-to-air and air-to-ground missions while incorporating modern electronic warfare systems and sensors. The Typhoon is recognized in the international defense market for operational flexibility and interoperability among allied forces.

Turkey's interest in the Eurofighter emerged in 2022 when Ankara became frustrated with prolonged negotiations for F-16 fighter jet procurement from the United States. The Eurofighter option became a significant component of Turkish air force modernization strategy. Turkey is scheduled to receive the first batch of Typhoons from Britain in 2030. The agreement includes an option for additional aircraft purchases in the future. This development strengthens Turkey's air platform diversity, enhancing NATO interoperability and operational capabilities.

Turkey continues to increase defense sector investments. The ministry announced that the 2027 defense budget has been increased due to ongoing domestic defense industry projects for air defense systems, platform development, the indigenous Kaan fifth-generation fighter program, unmanned aerial vehicle development, and shipbuilding initiatives. The domestically developed Kaan aircraft is intended to replace the Air Force Command's aging F-16 fleet, scheduled for phase-out beginning in the 2030s. A defense cooperation agreement signed with Qatar, Pakistan, and Indonesia reinforces Turkey's strategic position in the regional security environment.