Keir Starmer has inked a significant £8 billion agreement with Turkey for the purchase of UK Typhoon fighter jets.
The deal was sealed while the Prime Minister visited Ankara on Monday to hold discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Downing Street revealed that this multi-billion pound contract for 20 UK Typhoon jets marks the first fresh order of these aircraft since 2017.
The agreement, set to initiate deliveries in 2030, is anticipated to create 20,000 jobs in the UK and enhance NATO security, according to No10.
Expressing his views, Mr. Starmer stated: “This groundbreaking deal with Turkey is a triumph for British labor, our defense sector, and NATO security. Positioned on opposite ends of Europe, the UK and Turkey are crucial in addressing contemporary challenges, enabling our Armed Forces to collaborate closely in deterring threats and safeguarding national interests.”
The finalized deal on Monday signifies the end of prolonged negotiations, with reports suggesting Ankara has been pursuing Typhoon purchases since 2023.
In July, Defense Secretary John Healey and his Turkish counterpart signed a memorandum of understanding, clearing the path for the export agreement post Germany’s reported involvement.
The fighter jets, also recognized as Eurofighters, are a product of collaboration among the UK, Germany, Spain, and Italy.
Accompanying the Prime Minister, Mr. Healey remarked: “This marks another significant export triumph for the UK, constituting the largest jet export deal in a generation. It will inject billions into our economy and sustain British Typhoon production for the long term. Beyond aircraft procurement, this agreement signifies a deepening defense and industrial alliance between our nations.”
“Turkey is a vital NATO ally and a key player in the Black Sea region. By equipping them with cutting-edge Typhoon fighter jets, this deal will reinforce NATO deterrence efforts, fostering enhanced security for all. This government is committed to leveraging defense as a growth catalyst nationwide,” he added.