The United Kingdom is leading discussions on a potential sale of Eurofighter jets to Turkey, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz confirming that negotiations are in the early stages. The project is seen as a way to strengthen ties with NATO member Turkey. Last year, Ankara expressed interest in acquiring the jets, but talks have been slow due to Germany’s objections related to Turkey’s involvement in the Gaza conflict. However, Berlin has recently approved major arms shipments to Turkey, indicating a shift in policy. The Eurofighter Typhoon jets are produced by a consortium of European companies, and any sale must be approved by all participating nations. German-Turkish relations have been strained in recent years, with Germany reducing arms exports to Turkey following military operations in Syria. Additionally, tensions have arisen over Israel’s actions in Gaza, with Turkish President Erdogan accusing Israel of genocide. In response, Chancellor Scholz called for a ceasefire and expressed condolences for all civilian casualties in the conflict. The potential sale of Eurofighter jets to Turkey is seen as a way to improve bilateral relations and enhance defense cooperation between the countries.
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Germany acknowledges UK’s leadership role in potential supply of Eurofighters to Turkey | Political Developments
