Finally! Qatari Typhoon Jets Officially Strengthen Türkiye's Air Fleet Ahead of the KAAN Era

Finally! Qatari Typhoon Jets Officially Strengthen Türkiye's Air Fleet Ahead of the KAAN Era

ANKARA
News has emerged that Turkey has re-emerged as a significant player in the global air arms market. According to several international reports, Ankara is currently in advanced talks with Qatar regarding the potential purchase of used Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets, a diplomatic-military move considered crucial as a "bridge" measure before the domestic next-generation jet, the Kaan, is fully ready for use.

This move is not simply a fleet overhaul; it reflects Turkey's determination to maintain air superiority amidst regional geopolitical tensions and rapidly evolving military technology.

After being removed from the F-35 program in 2019 as a consequence of the purchase of the Russian S-400 air defense system, Turkey faces a real challenge in maintaining the relevance and combat effectiveness of its air force.

The F-16 fleet, which has long been the backbone of Turkey's air force, is entering its twilight years. Many units require intensive maintenance, electronic upgrades, and subsystem replacements to remain effective in today's conflict environments.

In this context, the Eurofighter, while not comparable to modern fourth-generation or fifth-generation fighters, is considered a practical alternative. In used but operationally viable condition, this type of jet could be quickly integrated into the fighter fleet, narrowing any potential capability gaps that may arise during the transition period.

Several sources have suggested that Turkey may attempt to negotiate the acquisition of up to 24 Eurofighter Tranche 3As from Qatar. Qatar itself ordered 24 Typhoons along with a support package in 2017.

Regional media reported that Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler and Turkish Air Force Commander Ziya Cemal Kadıoğlu visited Doha to meet with Qatari defense officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.

However, such a deal cannot be finalized without the approval of the Eurofighter consortium member states (the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain). Export approval from each member is crucial, especially given the geopolitical sensitivity of fighter jet deployment in the Middle East and Mediterranean.

Interestingly, Turkey is also seeking to acquire new Eurofighters directly from the UK, having signed a memorandum of understanding to purchase 40 by July 2025.

However, these negotiations have faced obstacles over price and a long delivery schedule, making the option of purchasing from Qatar more attractive temporarily.

President Erdoğan previously stated that Germany and the UK had shown a positive attitude towards plans to export jets to Turkey, opening up greater opportunities for their realization.

Used jets from Qatar can be integrated more quickly than waiting for new production. This is crucial for maintaining Turkey's air readiness. With a reputation as a potential future buyer, Turkey could open up opportunities for cooperation on Tranche 4 upgrades or joint radar systems.

Turkey is no longer entirely dependent on a single aircraft type or supplier; this flexibility strengthens its negotiating position in military diplomacy. While viable, used aircraft require intensive maintenance. The availability of spare parts and logistical support are key to success.

Several European countries have previously rejected Eurofighter exports to Turkey due to political perceptions and human rights concerns. Germany, in particular, previously blocked the sale, although it later reversed its stance. Integrating Turkish avionics systems with Eurofighter systems requires specific adaptations to ensure optimal operation within a heterogeneous fleet.


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