Türkiye nears deal to buy Eurofighter jets, minister says

Türkiye is nearing an agreement to purchase Eurofighter jets, Defense Minister Yaşar Güler said on Aug. 14, expressing optimism about the negotiations.

"I think we are nearing the end," Güler told private broadcaster HaberTürk during a televised interview.

The Eurofighter is produced by a consortium that includes Germany, the U.K., Spain and Italy. However, Germany has yet to grant its consent for the sale to proceed.

"We hear that there are positive developments in Germany, and we think that hopefully it will be concluded soon," Güler added.

Türkiye's interest in acquiring Eurofighter jets has emerged as an alternative amid uncertainties surrounding the recent approval of F-16 purchases from the United States.

The finalized F-16 deal, greenlit by U.S. Congress, allows Ankara to acquire 40 new jets and upgrade 79 existing ones.

Despite the progress on the F-16 front, Turkish authorities have remained steadfast in their pursuit of Eurofighter jets, seeking to diversify the country's defense acquisitions.

Germany's hesitation to approve the sale is reportedly tied to concerns over Türkiye's natural gas drilling activities in the eastern Mediterranean.

The reservations trace back to decisions made by the EU Council in 2019 when sanctions were imposed on Türkiye over its exploration activities in the sea during a crisis with Greece, media reports said.

Güler also addressed the ongoing delivery of F-16 jets, stating there were no issues with the process.

"Our American friends are currently examining these positively and providing timely answers. The positive situation continues," he said.

Additionally, the minister commented on Ankara's military operations in northern Syria, arguing they have...