France agrees to supply Turkey with MBDA Meteor missiles for Eurofighter Typhoons

By Defence Industry Europe

France has agreed to sell MBDA Meteor air-to-air missiles to Turkey, a move set to enhance the capabilities of Eurofighter Typhoons Ankara is negotiating to purchase. According to Turkish media, the decision was influenced by the United Kingdom, a key partner in the development of the Meteor missile.

 

The Meteor missile is a cutting-edge weapon, boasting a range of 200 km and speeds exceeding Mach 4 thanks to its unique solid-fuel ramjet engine. With its advanced radar-guided targeting system, the missile is highly effective against a wide range of threats, offering a significant boost to the operational capabilities of the Typhoon aircraft.

The Eurofighter Typhoon deal, involving the acquisition of 40 multi-role fighters for the Turkish Air Force, had faced delays due to Germany’s restrictive arms export policies. However, Germany recently approved the sale, following pressure from other programme participants, including the UK, Italy, and Spain. Reports suggest Turkey’s agreement to Sweden’s NATO membership may have played a role in securing Berlin’s consent.

 

 

Turkey’s interest in the Eurofighter Typhoon surged after the United States blocked its acquisition of stealth F-35 aircraft, citing political concerns. The Typhoons are expected to equip two Turkish Air Force squadrons, filling a critical gap in Turkey’s aerial defence capabilities. Negotiations are being led by the UK, the primary contractor for the deal.

Simultaneously, Turkey continues to invest in its indigenous defence projects. The prototype of its next-generation fighter jet, named Kaan, has completed its maiden flight. Turkish firms are also working on developing domestic air-to-air missiles comparable to the Meteor, though this programme remains in its early stages.

 

 

In addition to the Eurofighter deal, Turkey recently finalised contracts for the purchase of 40 F-16V aircraft and plans to modernise part of its existing F-16 fleet to the Viper standard. Combined, these acquisitions will add 80 modern fighter jets to Turkey’s arsenal in the coming years, significantly strengthening its air power amid regional security concerns.

 

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