Turkey and Eurofighter: The “Key Version” That Could Shift Air Superiority with Greece

Turkey is at a crossroads for its Air Force. The aging F-16 fleet, the imminent retirement of the F-4 Phantom, and U.S. sanctions have created a significant operational gap. The solution Ankara is considering is the acquisition of Eurofighter Typhoon jets, both used and new, in an effort to “streamline” its fleet and reduce the technological advantage currently held by Greece.

Reports suggest Turkey is exploring the purchase of 12–24 used Eurofighters from Qatar or Oman, likely the Tranche 3A version. Despite having been delivered only three years ago, these aircraft are already considered “outdated” due to high operational costs and limited capabilities compared to newer versions.

The Tranche 3A, introduced in 2009, features the AESA Captor-E radar, allowing simultaneous tracking of dozens of targets and 50% greater coverage than Turkey’s current F-16s. It also includes a Helmet-Mounted Sight System (HMSS), Link-16 data link, and conformal fuel tanks, extending range without occupying weapon stations on wings or fuselage.

In the medium term, Ankara reportedly plans a supplementary order of 40 new Eurofighters – likely Tranche 4 or Tranche 5. Tranche 4 offers upgraded Captor-E radar, improved electronics and sensors, enhanced self-protection, and a full electronic warfare suite. Tranche 5, however, is the flagship version, with Captor-E/ECRS Mk1 radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, faster mission computer, redesigned cockpit, and a high-speed processor for sensor fusion. These jets would also be equipped with the Swedish AREXIS self-protection system and could carry strategic weapons like Taurus cruise missiles and AARGM anti-radar missiles.

The pressure for immediate reinforcement is high. The F-16 fleet faces serious availability issues, and the agreement with the U.S. for new F-16s and upgrade kits seems delayed. Eurofighter offers a “solution of necessity”, but at a high cost: Tranche 5 costs around €218 million per unit, while operational costs reach €60,000 per flight hour, nearly double that of an F-16 Viper.

Geopolitical Analysis:Turkey’s move clearly demonstrates an effort to narrow the gap with Greece and regain operational autonomy amid Western restrictions. The choice between Tranche 3A, Tranche 4, and Tranche 5 will determine the speed of modernization, cost-efficiency, and geostrategic impact of Turkey’s Air Force for decades to come. Ankara must balance delivery timelines with technological superiority at a moment when air dominance in the Eastern Mediterranean is increasingly critical.

Source: pagenews.gr