British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Ankara, Turkey, on Monday to advance negotiations on a multi-billion-dollar deal for the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, aimed at bolstering Turkey’s air defense capabilities. The visit underscores the UK’s strategic efforts to strengthen bilateral ties with Turkey, a key NATO ally, while navigating complex regional dynamics. Starmer is set to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss both regional and bilateral issues, including the potential sale of the advanced fighter jets. The Eurofighter Typhoon, developed by a consortium led by Britain’s BAE Systems, has been a focal point of discussions since a preliminary agreement was signed in July, following Germany’s decision to lift its opposition to the deal. Turkey views the acquisition of Eurofighters as an interim solution until its domestically developed KAAN fighter jet becomes operational, expected no earlier than 2028. Additionally, Turkey seeks reentry into the U.S.-led F-35 program, from which it was excluded in 2019 due to its purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems. During his visit, Starmer toured the Turkish Aerospace Industries facility, receiving a briefing on the KAAN project. The trip, however, is set against a backdrop of political tensions, as Turkish prosecutors recently filed new espionage charges against Istanbul’s jailed mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, a prominent opposition figure. The UK has expressed concerns over Turkey’s human rights record, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and fair trials. Despite these challenges, Starmer remains optimistic about finalizing the defense deal, highlighting the coexistence of economic partnership and candid dialogue on contentious issues.
British Prime Minister Starmer arrives in Turkey to discuss Eurofighter jet deal
