The German government has cleared the path for the potential export of Eurofighter Typhoon combat jets to Turkey. According to reports, the Federal Security Council has approved a preliminary inquiry concerning 40 of the aircraft. These jets would be manufactured in the United Kingdom, incorporating components sourced from Germany.
The decision follows a request submitted by Turkey in March 2023. This move also responds to calls from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Eurofighter program is a collaborative effort involving the governments of the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy and Spain and German approval is a prerequisite for any export to third countries.
Sources indicate that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the British government and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis have been informed of the Federal Security Council’s decision. The move is noteworthy given existing tensions between Greece and Turkey, both NATO members, stemming from competing territorial claims.
During the review process, Turkey reportedly provided assurances that the aircraft would be deployed solely within the framework of NATO solidarity, specifically refraining from usage against any member of the alliance. Discussions regarding the planned authorization were also held with Prime Minister Mitsotakis prior to the German government’s approval. Greece recently finalized the acquisition of 24 Rafale fighter jets from France, with delivery completed in January.