Jet-Setting Diplomacy: Starmer's Mission to Secure Eurofighter Sale in Turkiye

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is in Turkiye to push forward multi-billion-dollar negotiations for Eurofighter Typhoon jets, aimed at boosting Ankara's air capabilities. Turkiye seeks these jets as a stopgap before its own fifth-generation fighter is ready, while also eyeing a return to the F-35 program.

Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, has embarked on a high-stakes visit to Turkiye, focusing on clinching a significant sale of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, valued in the billions, to augment the country's aerial arsenal.

Set for discussions with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the agenda covers regional and bilateral ties. This visit follows a preliminary contract inked in July involving key European nations and led by Britain's BAE Systems.

As Turkiye awaits its domestically developed fighter jet, set for 2028 launch, it aims to complement its fleet with Eurofighters and seeks reentry into the F-35 program from which it was previously excluded.

(With inputs from agencies.)