Ankara has played down reports that Türkiye will procure 10–12 Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 3A fighters following last week’s official visit to Qatar.
Ankara has dismissed reports claiming that Türkiye will buy 10–12 Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 3A fighters following Defence Minister Yaşar Güler and Air Force Commander Gen. Ziya Cemal Kadıoğlu’s official visit to Qatar last week. The Ministry of National Defence (Turkish MoD) sources reiterated that no deal has been finalised, stating that information will only be shared once a contract stage is reached.
Officials noted that Türkiye continues work on multiple configurations to meet its Air Force’s operational needs until the national KAAN fighter enters service. “There is no confirmed development regarding Eurofighter procurement,” ministry sources said, urging the public not to rely on unofficial statements.
Responding to questions about the European Union’s newly adopted Security and Defence Architecture (SAFE), Turkish MoD sources warned that certain EU members are pursuing “maximalist ambitions” by attempting to exclude non-EU allies like Türkiye from the framework. “We observe that some seek to use this mechanism as leverage and block key security decisions for their national interests,” they said. These words adress Greece which demands Turkiye to give up from its “Casus Belli” decleration concerning Greece’s desire to expand its territoral waters to 12 miles.
Sources stressed that European security can only be strengthened through inclusiveness, strategic foresight, and collective solidarity, underlining that Türkiye’s defence capabilities make it a vital contributor to the continent’s stability. Ankara, officials added, will continue to pursue cooperation both within and outside the SAFE framework with open-minded European partners.
Author: Özgür Ekşi
