Turkey is pushing to quickly modernize its air force amid rising regional tensions and exposed air defense gaps. The country is working with European allies and the U.S. to secure advanced fighter jets. Turkish officials say urgent upgrades are needed, especially after recent Israeli strikes across the region raised security concerns in Ankara. A key part of Turkey’s plan includes acquiring Eurofighter Typhoons and eventually rejoining the U.S. F-35 program, despite past restrictions.
Ankara is close to sealing a deal for 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, including 12 used ones from Qatar and Oman. Talks are underway with Britain, Germany, Italy, and Spain — all members of the Typhoon consortium. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is set to visit Qatar and Oman to discuss delivery timelines and pricing. If approved, the rest of the 28 new jets would be delivered in the coming years. Officials believe this is critical to maintaining regional air power balance.
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Turkey’s growing urgency follows military buildups by rivals, including Israel and Greece. Israel already operates hundreds of advanced U.S.-supplied F-15s, F-16s, and F-35s. Its recent strikes on Iran, Syria, and Lebanon have made Ankara rethink its air strategy. Meanwhile, Greece — a NATO ally but regional rival — is preparing to receive its own fleet of F-35s within three years. Past aerial encounters between the two nations highlight the ongoing tension.
Turkey also hopes to overcome U.S. sanctions blocking its access to the F-35 program. These were imposed after Ankara bought Russia’s S-400 missile system in 2020. Now, Turkish and U.S. officials are exploring a temporary sanctions waiver or political workaround. Ankara argues its role in helping mediate Gaza ceasefire talks shows its strategic value. Turkish officials insist both sides have the political will to resolve the issue.
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While seeking foreign jets, Turkey is also developing its own stealth fighter, KAAN. Though promising, officials admit it will take years before KAAN fully replaces the aging F-16 fleet. Meanwhile, Turkey is upgrading current aircraft and expanding its missile defense under a larger air power strategy. Former air force officials warn that without rapid action, Turkey’s air defense will remain vulnerable. They urge faster progress on all fighter jet acquisition programs.